Virat Kohli’s technical vulnerabilities have long been a topic of discussion among cricket analysts and opposition bowlers. In a recent revelation, Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, who bowled Virat Kohli for just six runs in a Ranji Trophy match at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, shared an intriguing anecdote.
Sangwan disclosed that before the match, even the team bus driver had advised him on how to exploit Kohli’s weakness outside the off-stump. This statement has sparked conversations about whether Kohli’s well-documented struggles in the fourth and fifth stump channel have become too predictable for bowlers worldwide.
The Bus Driver’s Tactical Advice on Kohli’s Dismissal
Ahead of the Ranji Trophy match between Delhi and Railways, Sangwan recalled a conversation with the team’s bus driver, who suggested a specific bowling strategy to dismiss Kohli.
“Even the bus driver told me, ‘You should bowl to Kohli around the fourth or fifth stump, and he will get out.'”
While acknowledging this advice, Sangwan emphasized that he primarily focused on his own strengths rather than Kohli’s weaknesses.
“I had confidence in my own bowling. I did not want to just target an opponent’s weakness; I wanted to play to my own strengths. I bowled in my rhythm, and I got the wicket.”
On January 31, in a packed Arun Jaitley Stadium, Sangwan managed to silence thousands of spectators by clean bowling Virat Kohli for a mere six runs, executing a disciplined line and length strategy.
No Special Plan for Kohli – A Focus on Team Strategy
Sangwan further stated that Railways’ team strategy was not specifically designed to target Kohli. Instead, their approach was to maintain disciplined bowling against Delhi’s aggressive stroke players.
“There was no specific plan for Virat Kohli. Our coaches told us that Delhi’s batters love playing aggressive cricket and executing big strokes. We were instructed to bowl a disciplined line, and I followed that plan.”
Kohli’s Struggles Outside Off-Stump: A Known Challenge
Virat Kohli’s struggles with deliveries outside off-stump are well-documented. This vulnerability has been exploited by world-class bowlers, most notably during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where Australian bowlers dismissed Kohli eight times in nine innings using the same strategy.
Kohli’s off-stump issues are often attributed to:
✔ His tendency to chase deliveries in the fourth and fifth stump region.
✔ His aggressive mindset, which sometimes leads to false shots.
✔ Persistent technical adjustments to counter swing and seam movement.
This area of concern has resurfaced frequently in Test cricket, leading to discussions among coaches and analysts regarding potential refinements in Kohli’s batting approach.
A Post-Match Encounter with Virat Kohli
Despite getting Kohli out cheaply, Sangwan had a memorable post-match moment with the Indian cricket icon.
“After our innings ended, I was heading to the dressing room when I met Virat Kohli. He was with Ayush Badoni at the time. Kohli extended his hand and said, ‘Great bowling.’ He acknowledged my performance and appreciated my efforts.”
Additionally, Sangwan shared an interesting interaction regarding the ball used to dismiss Kohli:
“During the lunch break, I went to the Delhi dressing room with the same ball I used to bowl him out. Kohli looked at it and jokingly said, ‘Oh Teri Ki! You must be really enjoying this moment!’”
This lighthearted exchange reflects Kohli’s sportsmanship and respect for young emerging players.
Final Thoughts: The Growing Influence of Data & Insights in Cricket
Himanshu Sangwan’s revelation underscores how data-driven strategies and player-specific weaknesses have become integral to modern-day cricket. The fact that even a bus driver was aware of Kohli’s technical vulnerabilities highlights the influence of media, analytics, and match discussions in shaping cricketing narratives.
For young pacers like Sangwan, dismissing a legend like Virat Kohli is a significant milestone that will be remembered throughout their careers. As cricket continues to evolve, players will need to constantly adapt and refine their techniques to stay ahead in the game.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.