Karnataka seamer Vijaykumar Vyshak recently shared his awe-inspiring experience of training alongside Virat Kohli during his time with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024). Vyshak, who made his IPL debut in 2023 and took nine wickets from seven matches, played for RCB in the recent season and was deeply impacted by Kohli's meticulous approach to training.
In an interview, Vyshak revealed how he was left stunned by Kohli's unwavering work ethic, attention to detail, and consistency in everything he did. Whether it was Kohli's disciplined eating habits or his rigorous practice routine, Vyshak noted that Kohli executed everything with precision, which left a lasting impression on him.
"Training with Virat Kohli can really impact you as a player. Last season, while I admired him, I paid attention to the finer details such as his work ethic, his process, and his consistency. Whether it is his eating habits or practice routine, everything is done with precision. It is admirable how confident he is before every game, and now I try to have the same confidence every time I step onto the field,” Vyshak was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
During IPL 2024, Vyshak played four matches and picked up four wickets. He also shared a valuable lesson he learned from Mohammed Siraj, another RCB star, after a challenging game where he conceded 60 runs.
"In my first game for RCB, I did well, but then I conceded 60 runs in the next match. Siraj told me, 'This is the game, and this is the challenge at the highest level.' I am keen to keep this in mind and to pass on these lessons whenever I can," Vyshak added.
Vyshak has been in exceptional form in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy 2024. He showcased his all-round abilities by scoring 343 runs from 13 innings at an average of 31.18 and a strike rate of 72.82, including one hundred and one fifty. With the ball, he was Karnataka's highest wicket-taker, claiming 39 wickets from 16 innings at an average of 23.61 and an economy of 3.29.
Vyshak is set to continue his cricketing journey with Gulbarga Mystics in the Maharaja Trophy Karnataka State Cricket Association T20, where he will look to build on his recent successes and further establish himself as a key player in the domestic circuit.