Picture Credit: X
The Men in Blue are currently in the rainbow nation for a multi-format series. While the opening game of the three-match T20I series was washed out due to persistent rain, all will hope for a competitive game on the cards as they next play in Gqeberha on Tuesday, 12 December in the second T20I.
While the Men in Blue are being led by Suryakumar Yadav in the T20Is, Rohit Sharma will take over for the two-match Test series as he will mark his return for India’s heartbreaking World Cup final loss at home against Australia. But Rohit eyes his return, along with Virat Kohli, the question of fitness has also come into picture, with the T20 World Cup next year.
Amidst this, India’s strength and conditioning coach, Ankit Kaliyar has opened up Sharma’s fitness. Speaking with Times of India, Ankit said that Rohit is fit, as fit as Kohli. “Rohit Sharma is a fit player. He has good fitness. He looks a bit bulky but he always passes the Yo-Yo test. He is as fit as Virat Kohli. H e looks like he is bulky but we have seem on the field. His agility and mobility is amazing. He among the fittest cricketers,” said Ankit Kaliyar in a chat with TOI.
He further added that Kohli got into the team and has been a leading example when it comes to fitness. He also lauded the star batter adding that he created a culture of fitness. “Virat is a leading example when it comes to fitness. He has created a culture of fitness in the team. When your top player is fit, then you become an example for others. He injects confidence in others,” he continued.
Going on, hailing the former India captain, Ankit recalled, “When he was the captain, he ensured everyone remained fit. Fitness was his top parameter in the team. He has created that culture and discipline in the team. That atmosphere was created by Virat bhai and it’s a commendable thing. He is the reason why all the Indian players are so fit.”
