Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh dismissed concerns about Virat Kohli’s fitness ahead of his international comeback. Calling Kohli a ‘fitness guru,’ Harbhajan asserted that the Indian star still has what it takes to excel at the highest level.
The Delhi-born batter has not played competitive cricket since the IPL 2025 final, spending his time in London with family. He is set to make his return in the three-match ODI series against Australia, starting October 19. Speaking on Star Sports after the squad announcement on Saturday, the 45-year-old said, as reported by India Today:
“Please, don’t ask any questions about his (Virat Kohli) fitness. When it comes to fitness, he’s a fitness guru. Everyone follows what he does. Virat Kohli—there’s no concern about his fitness. He’s fit, probably fitter than many who have played alongside him. In present international cricket, he’s probably the fittest guy. That part is over.”
Harbhajan Singh further stated that the veteran had retired from Test cricket prematurely, adding:
“I am looking forward to seeing Virat Kohli back in action because fans haven’t seen him play recently, and personally, I would like to see him playing this format a little longer because he still has it in him. When he retired from Test cricket, I thought he still had about four or five years left—not just to play, but to dominate in Test cricket. He’s that kind of batter. I’m looking forward to seeing him bat, and he’s going to Australia.”
Virat Kohli Boasts Impressive ODI Record In Australia
Meanwhile, former India captain Virat Kohli has enjoyed a stellar ODI record in Australia. In 29 matches on Australian soil, he has scored 1,327 runs at an average of 51.03, including five centuries, with a highest score of 133*.
Kohli is also just 54 runs short of surpassing Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history. His last appearance for India came in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand.
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