Playing For A Larger Purpose Elevates My Game – Virat Kohli
BENGALURU- Indian cricket star Virat Kohli spoke about leadership, pressure and purpose-driven performance during a session at the third RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit Powered by Leaders in Bengaluru.
During the session titled ‘Mind Over Everything: Virat Kohli on Peak Performance’, the former India captain reflected on the mindset that has shaped his long international career.
Reflecting on handling responsibility and pressure, Kohli said, “I’m wired in a way that I always want more responsibility and more load. That’s where I seem to be at my absolute best.”
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter also spoke about the importance of playing for a larger purpose beyond personal milestones.
“You have no time to think about yourself. That’s such a beautiful place to be in. If I can play for a larger cause, a larger purpose, then I can perform beyond the abilities I think I have,” he said.
Kohli also recalled his experience of working with former India head coach Rahul Dravid and former India batting coach Vikram Rathore.
“I had a great phase, and whenever I meet them, I thank them from the bottom of my heart because they took care of me in a way that made me feel like I wanted to play for them. They understood what I was feeling and genuinely took care of me mentally. That put me in a space where I could enjoy my cricket again,” Kohli said.
Speaking about fitness and discipline, Kohli said he does not consider his lifestyle sacrifices extraordinary. “I don’t really call it sacrifice. People term it that way when you let go of things, but I see it as refinement,” he said.
“For me, it’s about being honest with the opportunity. There are lakhs of people who want to be in this position, playing for India and playing at the highest level. So, I don’t think this is something that should be celebrated as extraordinary. This should be the norm.”
Kohli also said athletes should aim to inspire people beyond statistics and performances.
“For me now, impact is about creating belief. If people can look at your journey, your discipline, or the way you respond under pressure and feel inspired in their own lives, then that’s probably the most fulfilling thing,” he said. (IANS)
