On Virat Kohli’s birthday, fans say how the Team India captain has inspired them

Captain Kohli turns 33 today as India take on Scotland in a crucial group stage match of the T20 cricket World Cup.

Here are seven students wishing Virat Kohli a happy birthday and sharing how he has inspired them in various aspects of life.

I was never a fan of cricket until Virat Kohli introduced me to it. His focus on mental preparation caught my attention and it has helped me prepare for any challenge with a better approach. Virat has inspired me to face any challenge that comes my way.

Bitan Banerjee, first-year, BSc, Computer Science and Engineering, University of Engineering and Management (UEM)

After Sachin Tendulkar, I never imagined that another Indian batsman would dominate world cricket. In an era when cricketers are only interested in glory in the shorter format, Virat Kohli is keeping the mentality of Test cricket alive as India’s captain and the best player in the world.

Samragyee Sengupta, first year, MBBS, Jagannath Gupta Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital

Virat is no less than a superstar and has used his status to speak out against animal cruelty, environmental disasters and online abuse. Through Virat Kohli Foundation, he helps out students and works tirelessly for the well-being of children and the education of people from rural areas. I admire his humane side.

Sarthak Guha, first year, MA, Public Policy, National Law School of India University

Virat Kohli has made India the fittest team in the world, which is why the team has performed consistently over the last three to four years under his leadership. He has changed the game of cricket and the perception of cricketers. He is not only a fitness freak, but he also promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Sankujit Biswas, second year, BSc, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Guru Nanak Institute of Technology

Cricket has become ingrained in our culture and, for our generation, Virat Kohli exemplifies individual success in a team sport. All his success can be attributed to his drive, passion, and unwavering hard work. He has inspired all of us to work hard towards our aspirations. He is a role model for me because of his determination and never-say-die attitude.

Torsha Banerjee, third year, BA, Journalism and Mass Communication, Vivekananda College

Your dreams become a reality through dedication and hard work. Virat Kohli is a shining example of what determination can do for a person and how it can bring out the best in them. I saw him lift the U-19 World Cup for India and then help India win the World Cup after 28 years. He took over the captaincy from MS Dhoni and took India to No. 1 in the Test rankings. He is the epitome of self-belief and for me, he is an icon, a legend, and a leader par excellence.

Avik Chakraborty, third year, English Literature, The Bhawanipur Education Society College.

Virat is not your typical cricket superstar; he has built his brand through hard work and dedication. He has also built several businesses like Wrogn and One8 with his astute business acumen. He is someone who is never afraid to follow his instincts, which is a valuable lesson I have taken to my heart as an aspiring entrepreneur.

Saniya Sanu, second year, BCom, Badruka College of Commerce and Arts