KING Kohli fever rocks Capital

If the legend status of Virat Kohli needed more sheen, a few more layers were added in the Capital over the last tew days. Before trolls and critics jump and say he did not score runs against Railways in a Ranji Trophy match, scenes fans saw were one of delirium. All folks wanted, young and old, was just a sight of King Kohli.

Come on, in this Delhi winter, who would want to jump out of the bed at 3 am and reach the Ferozeshah Kotla, now known as the Arun Jaitley Stadium. That gates were thrown open by the DDCA is a good thing and needs to be appreciated. There are so many youngsters and so many Millenials who have been craving just to see Kohli in flesh and blood. People have driven from small towns in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, daily, just to watch Kohli.

Sample this, over the last weekend, when Coldplay fans packed the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, each one who came may not have known the lyrics of all their songs. But then, to be inside the arena and enjoy the music, with a song even for legend Jasprit Bumrah was a great connect. It was ‘Paradise’ for most fans, to borrow from their own ‘number.’ Some fans who could not afford lower tier tickets were content just to sample the atmosphere and enjoy the Coldplay energy.

 Likewise, the Ferozeshah Kotla, usually dull as ditchwater and blamed for poor facilities for spectators and smog, has loved the presence of Kohli. His work ethic, his ability to mingle with all has been a delight. Add to it the value he adds for the Ranji Trophy, Delhi has been fortunate to see Kohli chat with colleagues, field, and demonstrate. Above all, to inspire so many is most relevant. This is usually the time most school kids are preparing for exams and even the strenuous Board exams. Yet, parents did not mind brining a Class 9 or 10 kid to watch Kohli. They have spoken of it being a lifetime opportunity.

For those who think every cricket fan can pay for the IPL when Kohli is seen at the Kotla, don’t get it wrong. Most tickets are priced so high and getting it so tough, fans have to watch it on TV or apps. This time, Kohli as a legend was seen. Each motion of his has been captured. There have been scenes of immense joy when he has posed for pictures and also signed autographs. All of them should be grateful Kohli agreed to turn out for Delhi, a city where he learnt his basics. One moment will stand out from Friday, when King Kohli was felicitated by DDCA President Arun Jaitley. Kohli’s junior coach Rajkumar Sharma had also come. Sure enough, in North Indian style, Kohli came and touched the feet of his coach, a Dronacharya.

What does this reflect, the simplicity of Kohli, not arrogance. We live in an age where so much negative stuff is fed on social media. Not all of it is to be believed on the platforms. If ‘seeing is believing,’ Kohli fever in the Capital reached a crescendo. The efforts behind this move for Kohli can only be understood if you watched the crowds in the Capital. After all, this city believes more in getting ‘free passes’ for sports and still not showing up. Yes, Kohli has drawn crowds and inspired a massive set of juniors who are learning the basics at cricket academies. Sometimes, just to watch an icon becomes so important. So many youngsters have gone back even more inspired they will do well.

Not all will get to the level of Kohli in international cricket but the sport is now played in so many levels, each one is important. The junior level is a stepping stone and for those who are good enough, they can make the  Delhi Ranji Trophy side. Add to it the new concept of a Delhi Premier League which witnesses fearless batting, bowling and fielding, maybe some Kohli fans-turned-cricketers will make it big in coming years.