Indian pacer Ishant Sharma has shared a heartfelt account of Virat Kohli’s early struggles, recalling their days in Delhi cricket when the now-iconic batter had to carefully budget his money for food and travel expenses.
Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Ishant reminisced about their time in the Under-19 setup, where they shared rooms, saved travel allowances, and counted money before meals. He emphasized that while Kohli is now regarded as a global cricket superstar, he remains “Cheeku” to those who grew up with him.
Humble Beginnings and Friendship
Ishant revealed that during their U-19 days, they would pool their limited resources to manage expenses. “When we were in the U-19s, we used to count how much money we had. We used to eat food. We used to save our TAs (travel allowances) and take them with us,” he recalled.
Despite Kohli’s rise to fame, Ishant said their bond remains unchanged, describing their friendship as brotherly. He recalled a humorous moment when Kohli informed him of his India call-up, kicking him awake and saying, “Your name has come! Will you really play for India?”.
Kohli’s Transformation into a Cricket Icon
Kohli, who debuted for India in 2008, has since become one of the most successful batters in cricket history, leading India to multiple victories and setting numerous records. Ishant noted that while the world sees Kohli as a superstar, he still sees him as the same childhood friend he grew up with.
Their camaraderie was evident during a recent IPL match, where the two were seen embracing on the field, a moment widely shared on social media.
A Story of Perseverance
Ishant’s recollections highlight Kohli’s journey from humble beginnings to cricketing greatness, serving as an inspiration for young athletes striving to make their mark in the sport. His story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the enduring bonds of friendship.
