
VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has called Virat Kohli an 'exemplary professional' and a 'great role model' for the next generation. Laxman told reporters in Bengaluru that Kohli…
VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has called Virat Kohli an 'exemplary professional' and a 'great role model' for the next generation. Laxman told reporters in Bengaluru that Kohli consistently sets high standards and strives to meet them every time he plays, inspiring young players. Kohli has scored 28,359 international runs across formats, including 85 centuries.

Laxman also defended the CoE amid scrutiny over India's growing injury list, saying injuries are inevitable and the focus should be on management. Several key players, including Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar, are current fitness concerns. He noted that the CoE's role extends beyond rehabilitation and is aimed at helping cricketers achieve overall excellence.
The usual narrative that Kohli is past his prime falls flat against Laxman's insider account of his relentless professionalism. What matters is not just the runs but the example he sets in the dressing room. The more telling story is the BCCI's struggle with player injuries. The CoE needs to show concrete results on rehabilitation timelines for the likes of Bumrah and Sundar, or scrutiny will only intensify.
Sources (3): timesofindia.indiatimes.com, rediff.com, thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 3 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 3 sources.