New Delhi [India], September 16 (ANI): Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan recently lavished praise on the iconic batter Virat Kohli, reminiscing about their initial interaction during their tenure with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Sarfaraz reflected on the profound impact Kohli had on him, particularly during their stint together from 2015 to 2018.

During that period, Sarfaraz played 25 matches for RCB under Kohli’s leadership, contributing 228 runs across 18 innings, primarily as a lower-order batter. Now, the two cricketers are set to reunite on the field in the first Test of the two-match series against Bangladesh, beginning Thursday.

Speaking on JioCinema, Sarfaraz highlighted Kohli’s unparalleled “passion and spirit,” noting his exceptional ability to inspire and lead. “Whenever I saw him, even in pre-match meetings, he would confidently predict how many runs he would score off specific bowlers and meticulously break down his strategy for everyone. It’s rare to find someone who can articulate such a positive outlook and then deliver on those promises the very next day,” Sarfaraz shared.

Recalling their first meeting at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Sarfaraz fondly remembered scoring 45 runs off 21 balls and receiving a bow from Kohli. “That moment was incredibly special. It has always been my dream to share an Indian team dressing room with him,” he added, expressing his eagerness for the upcoming opportunity.

Sarfaraz also spoke about Kohli’s disciplined approach to preparation. “Virat is crystal clear about his game. He understands the importance of consistent hard work and doesn’t let criticism or praise sway him. He follows a strict routine—working on specific skills in the morning, afternoon, and evening, and ensuring proper rest. This level of dedication is what I’ve learned from him.”

When asked about Kohli’s batting techniques, Sarfaraz highlighted two of his favorite shots: the flick shot and the cover drive, both hallmarks of Kohli’s impressive repertoire.

Sarfaraz made his international debut for India during the home Test series against England earlier this year, a series Kohli missed due to the birth of his second child. In three matches, Sarfaraz scored 200 runs at an average of 50.00, with three half-centuries in five innings and a top score of 68*.

The forthcoming two-match Test series between India and Bangladesh will commence on September 19 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The second Test is scheduled to start on September 27 in Kanpur. This series marks head coach Gautam Gambhir’s first Test assignment, and he will be eager to secure a series victory.

Following this series, Rohit Sharma’s team will host New Zealand for three Tests starting on October 16. This will be followed by the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, beginning on November 22.

India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh includes: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal. (ANI)