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Virat Kohli's Teenage Hunger: How a Family Tragedy Forged a Champion

Shikhar Dhawan shares a powerful story about captaining a young Virat Kohli. He reveals that even at 16-17, Kohli had remarkable clarity about his batting. In a stunning display of character, Kohli played a Ranji match and scored runs on the day his father died. Dhawan believes this moment was pivotal, cementing the intense discipline that defines Kohli's career today.

Key Points: Shikhar Dhawan on Virat Kohli's Hunger and Ranji Trophy Captaincy

  • Dhawan captained a teenage Kohli in Ranji Trophy, noting his exceptional game clarity
  • Kohli batted and scored runs on the very day his father passed away
  • Dhawan links this tragic event to Kohli's lifelong increase in discipline and intensity
  • Dhawan's autobiography and ventures aim to inspire India's next sporting generation
2 min read

He always had that hunger: Shikhar Dhawan on Virat Kohli

Shikhar Dhawan reveals Virat Kohli's incredible focus at 17 and the tragic day his father passed away, which defined the star's legendary discipline.

"The day his father passed away, he still came out to bat and scored runs - that showed his character and focus. - Shikhar Dhawan"

New Delhi, December 19

Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has hailed Virat Kohli's hunger and clarity about his game. Dhawan also opened up about captaining Kohli in the Ranji Trophy, highlighting how Kohli showed his character by scoring runs after his father passed away.

"Yes, Kohli always had that hunger. He played under my captaincy in the Ranji Trophy, and even at 16-17 years old, he had great clarity about his game. That was his biggest strength. The day his father passed away, he still came out to bat and scored runs - that showed his character and focus. From that day on, his discipline and intensity only kept increasing," Dhawan said at Backstage with Boria, to Boria Majumdar.

Dhawan unveiled his autobiography 'The One: Cricket, My Life and More' at a special event in New Delhi on December 14, using the occasion to revisit the mindset that shaped his life.

Dhawan outlined how the principles documented in 'The One' closely align with the mission of his venture, Da One Group, which focuses on structured athlete development, accessible grassroots pathways, and long-term capacity building for Indian sport.

He further highlighted the work of the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, which operates across education and community impact, underscoring his commitment to contributing meaningfully to sport and society.

Dhawan said, "As with everything I achieved in my career, I manifested this book and the purpose it serves. The One is a reflection of the mindset that shaped my journey, and I hope it inspires the champions of tomorrow. The same principles now guide my vision for the Da One Group and the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation. I want both ventures to play a pivotal role in India's rise as a sporting nation and in creating opportunities in education and community development. If my journey encourages young people to trust their potential and stay committed to their growth, that is the impact I want to create."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Respect to Shikhar Dhawan for sharing this. It's nice to see senior players acknowledging each other's journeys. His focus on grassroots development through Da One Group is also much needed. Wishing him success!
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Rohit P
Kohli's discipline is legendary. But let's also appreciate Gabbar for his positive outlook and now giving back to society through his foundation. We need more sports icons to focus on education and community work.
S
Sarah B
As a cricket fan from abroad, these insights into the mindset of Indian players are fascinating. The mental strength required to perform under such personal grief is unimaginable. Kohli is a global sporting icon for a reason.
K
Karthik V
While I admire the sentiment, I feel the article focuses too much on past anecdotes. I'd be more interested in concrete details about the "structured athlete development" Dhawan's group promises. Hope it's not just another celebrity venture.
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Nisha Z
The story of his father is heart-wrenching but also shows his dedication. It's this "never give up" attitude that makes our cricketers role models. Looking forward to reading Dhawan's autobiography for more such stories!

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