Rajkumar Sharma was engaged in a live interview when his phone began to ring. Noticing the caller ID, he remarked, "It is his call." The caller was Virat Kohli. Despite his numerous runs and remarkable accomplishments, Kohli consistently makes it a point to reach out to his childhood coach following significant matches. What could be more significant than a clash between India and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy? Filled with excitement, Rajkumar paused the interview and discreetly stepped away from the camera to converse with his protégé. Upon his return, his smile had widened.

"I extended my congratulations to him. Such moments bring immense joy," he shared with Rohit Juglan after resuming the interview.

This encapsulates the bond between Virat Kohli and Rajkumar Sharma. Beyond cricket, Kohli places great importance on family and friendships. It has become customary for him to kiss the locket representing his wife, Anushka Sharma, each time he achieves a century, just as it is for him to call his childhood coach, who has been instrumental in his development as a cricketer.

Kohli achieved his 51st ODI century, playing a pivotal role in his team's significant six-wicket victory over Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai, which secured India's place in the semifinals.

"I hope you won't inquire whether Virat Kohli is out of form," remarked Sharma, who was present in Dubai to witness Kohli's performance, during an interview with 'PTI Videos.'

This marked Kohli's first ODI century since November 2023. The 36-year-old had faced considerable criticism for his inability to score substantial runs in recent years.

Sharma asserted that Kohli has never been out of form. 

"He has consistently been a player for high-stakes matches, as I have always maintained, and he demonstrated that today. He has a strong track record against formidable opponents," Sharma stated regarding Kohli's unbeaten century, which also earned him the Player of the Match accolade.

"He has been delivering exceptional performances for many years. He is a player who has contributed significantly to the nation's victories," he added.

In the course of his innings, Kohli also became the fastest player to reach 14,000 ODI runs, ranking only behind Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara on the all-time list. Sharma expressed pride in this accomplishment as well.

"In addition to his 51st ODI and 82nd overall century, he has reached 14,000 ODI runs. This is a remarkable achievement, and I take pride in the fact that he has brought honour to the entire nation. We are all delighted that he has provided joy to the country," he commented.

When asked what advice he would offer Kohli to secure the Champions Trophy, the coach responded: "He is an incredibly experienced player. 

"Having played for such a long time, he understands what is necessary and his responsibilities within the team, and he has consistently delivered. He is well aware of his role in the team."

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