For many years, opposing teams successfully managed to hinder Virat Kohli's performance by utilizing spin bowling. When fast bowling was not available, Kohli's ability to score appeared to be limited. However, this perception has evolved. In the past year, the star player of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has transformed his approach to facing slower bowlers, adopting a more aggressive strategy. As he gears up to face the Chennai Super Kings in Chepauk—a venue where spinners typically have the upper hand—his encounters with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad will once again be closely observed.

Kohli's determination was clear from the outset of IPL 2025. He showcased his intent by remaining unbeaten on 59 runs from just 36 balls, indicating a significant change in his strategy against spin bowling. Dinesh Karthik, RCB's mentor and batting coach, who has closely monitored Kohli's evolution, asserts that the former RCB captain is currently batting with remarkable fluidity.

“He has performed admirably against spin in recent times, particularly in white-ball formats,” Karthik noted.

“I won’t delve too deeply into statistics, but if you examine crucial matches, such as the T20 World Cup final, he stepped up when it was essential. In the Champions Trophy, he was India’s second-highest run-scorer. Such achievements are not possible without effectively handling spin.”

Beyond the statistics, what is particularly noteworthy is Kohli’s relentless pursuit of improvement. Karthik recounted a recent incident during an RCB training session that highlighted Kohli’s ongoing commitment to excellence.

“Even today, when I spoke to him just now, he expressed a desire to refine one more shot. At this point in his career, his eagerness to incorporate new elements into his game speaks volumes about his ambition,” Karthik remarked. “He is driven to enhance his skills and continually elevate his performance. That is what distinguishes him as an exceptional player.”

A blockbuster clash

The encounter between RCB and CSK stands out as one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, largely due to the involvement of two of Indian cricket's greatest icons, Virat Kohli and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. In the previous year, this rivalry culminated in a dramatic conclusion during a group stage match late in the season, which acted as a de facto elimination game for the playoffs, with RCB securing a thrilling victory.

The spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk will present a significant challenge; however, Kohli has consistently demonstrated his ability to excel under pressure. The traditional belief that spin bowling can effectively hinder his performance may no longer be applicable.

Read Also: IPL 2025: LSG Dominates Hyderabad with Impressive Performance

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