Even in IPL rush, Virat Kohli makes time for childhood coach, inaugurates his academy

In the frenetic IPL season, where schedules are packed with back-to-back games and relentless travel, Virat Kohli proved that some bonds are timeless. A day after starring in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) clinical win over Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Kohli bypassed an early flight to stay back in his hometown for a deeply personal cause.

On Monday, the former Indian captain joined his childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, for the inauguration of a new branch of the West Delhi Cricket Academy (WDCA) at Delhi Public School, RK Puram. Despite RCB having a crucial fixture against Gujarat Titans on Thursday, Kohli ensured he stayed an extra day in the capital city to support the man who shaped his career. The ceremony was also attended by DDCA President Rohan Jaitley. RCB vs DC: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD

Kohli took time to give away awards to the academy's students, many of whom were visibly starstruck. In a touching moment of traditional respect, one student moved to touch Kohli's feet; however, the modern-day legend immediately signalled the youngster not to do so, preferring a handshake and a word of encouragement instead.

KOHLI'S ADDRESS TO SCHOOL KIDS

Addressing the students, Kohli's speech was a masterclass in self-awareness.

"I chose sport very early on in my life, but that came from a very honest place," the 37-year-old said, according to ANI.

"I was very sure that I wanted to go ahead and pursue cricket, and I had to be honest with myself, my family, and also my teachers to convey to them that this is the path I want to take."

He advised the budding cricketers to be fully committed to their ambitions: "Be honest with your dreams, about what you want to do and follow that dream with absolute commitment. Only you will know whether you are being 100% honest or not."

Kohli's visit comes amidst a sensational run of form in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. He has been a pillar of consistency for RCB, amassing 351 runs in just 8 innings at a staggering average of 58.50. His season has already been punctuated by a blistering unbeaten 81 off 44 balls against Gujarat Titans and a historic milestone at the Kotla on Monday, where he became the first player in IPL history to breach the 9,000-run mark.

Recalling his long association with the academy, Kohli noted that it remains a significant anchor in his life. "I started practising when I was eight years old, and I still continue to come to the academy whenever I get time. It's a big part of my childhood, and I hope all the kids that come to learn cricket here can value it," he concluded.

Rajkumar Sharma, speaking to ANI, expressed his pride in his most famous ward. "I am very happy and thankful to DPS RK Puram for this opportunity. With the infrastructure here and the hard work we put in, I am hopeful we will be able to produce more sportspersons for the country like Virat Kohli."

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