Shikhar Dhawan in awe of Virat Kohli’s new aggressive avatar in IPL 2026
Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan recently praised his teammate Virat Kohli, referring to him as one of the best players in the world. As Kohli continues to shine while playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Dhawan, who retired from cricket in 2024 and is now involved in punditry, highlighted Kohli’s evolution as a batter over nearly two decades.
In an exclusive interview with RevSportz, Dhawan emphasized Kohli’s significance as a pillar of Indian cricket and discussed the changes and improvements Kohli has made to his game over the years. Dhawan commended Kohli’s ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the sport, noting that the star cricketer has taken smarter risks, maintained consistency, and achieved a high level of fitness through hard work and discipline.
Dhawan expressed confidence in Kohli’s future performance, encouraging young players to learn from Kohli’s dedication and exemplary qualities. He praised Kohli’s commitment to excellence and predicted continued success for the cricket icon.
Virat Kohli’s Performance in IPL 2026:
In the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Kohli has emerged as the leading run-scorer for Royal Challengers Bangalore, amassing 379 runs in 9 matches and ranking as the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament. Kohli has continued to set records, becoming the first player to reach 9,000 runs in IPL history and leading the fours charts in the current season. Displaying a strike rate above 165, Kohli has showcased a new dimension to his game, demonstrating remarkable consistency and form at the age of 37.
Having previously held the Orange Cap twice in the season, Kohli’s exceptional performance has been a driving force for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Despite a setback in their recent match against Gujarat Titans, RCB remains a strong contender in the playoffs race, with Kohli’s leadership and batting prowess playing a crucial role in the team’s success.
Upcoming Match for RCB:
Royal Challengers Bangalore is set to face Lucknow Super Giants on May 7 in their next IPL 2026 match, scheduled to take place in Lucknow. Having already secured a victory against LSG earlier in the tournament, RCB will aim to capitalize on their opponent’s current form, as Lucknow Super Giants are positioned at the bottom of the points table and are on a five-match losing streak.
With the one-week gap between matches providing RCB with an opportunity to regroup and strategize, Kohli’s leadership and form will be instrumental in guiding the team towards another victory. As the IPL season progresses, cricket fans eagerly anticipate Kohli’s continued stellar performances and contributions to Royal Challengers Bangalore’s campaign.
Virat Kohli’s Impact on Indian Cricket
Shikhar Dhawan’s praise for Virat Kohli extends beyond his current form in the IPL 2026 season. Kohli has been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket, leading the team to numerous victories and milestones. His captaincy tenure saw India achieve success in various formats of the game, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20s.
Under Kohli’s leadership, Team India reached the number one ranking in Test cricket and enjoyed a dominant streak at home and abroad. Known for his aggressive approach on the field and astute cricketing acumen, Kohli has set high standards for himself and his teammates, inspiring a new generation of cricketers in the country.
Kohli’s Evolution as a Cricketer
From his early days in international cricket to becoming a seasoned veteran, Virat Kohli’s journey has been one of constant growth and refinement. His dedication to fitness, mental toughness, and technical skills has been instrumental in his success. Kohli’s ability to adapt to different conditions and oppositions has made him a formidable force in world cricket.
Over the years, Kohli has worked on his weaknesses and transformed them into strengths, evolving into a complete batsman across all formats. His hunger for runs, competitiveness, and never-say-die attitude have earned him respect from fans, fellow cricketers, and analysts alike.
Looking Ahead: Kohli’s Legacy
As Virat Kohli continues to push boundaries and raise the bar for excellence in cricket, his legacy in the sport is already cemented. Whether it’s breaking records, leading by example, or mentoring the next generation of cricketers, Kohli’s impact transcends the boundaries of the game.
While his playing career may eventually come to an end, Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket and the global cricketing landscape will endure for years to come. His passion for the game, work ethic, and commitment to continuous improvement serve as a blueprint for aspiring cricketers looking to make their mark on the sport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shikhar Dhawan’s admiration for Virat Kohli as one of the best players in the world is a sentiment shared by many within the cricketing fraternity. Kohli’s journey from a young prodigy to a seasoned veteran has been a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering passion for the game.
As Kohli continues to dazzle fans with his performances in the IPL and beyond, his impact on Indian cricket and the sport as a whole remains unparalleled. With each innings, Kohli adds another chapter to his illustrious career, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.


