In a moment that has reignited admiration for Virat Kohli’s legendary fitness, Australian pacer Kane Richardson has recalled the 2017 ODI at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where Kohli’s endurance stunned the visiting team. Speaking ahead of India’s upcoming ODI series in Australia, Richardson described the oppressive heat and humidity during the second ODI of the five-match series, saying, “We are literally dying and he’s running like on a treadmill.”
Richardson’s anecdote, shared during a media interaction on October 16, 2025, paints a vivid picture of Kohli’s unmatched stamina. “It was 42 degrees, 90% humidity. We couldn’t even celebrate wickets. And there’s Kohli—clipping singles, sprinting twos, like he’s in air conditioning,” he said. Kohli’s innings of 92 off 107 balls in that match was not just a batting masterclass but a testament to his physical and mental conditioning.
🧠 Key Highlights from Kane Richardson’s Tribute to Kohli
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Kane Richardson, Australian pacer |
| Date | October 16, 2025 |
| Match Recalled | 2nd ODI, India vs Australia, Eden Gardens, 2017 |
| Temperature | 42°C, 90% humidity |
| Kohli’s Performance | 92 runs off 107 balls |
| Quote | “We are literally dying and he’s running like on a treadmill” |
Richardson’s comments come as Kohli prepares to face Australia again in Perth, with the first ODI scheduled for October 19, 2025.
📊 Timeline of Kohli’s Fitness Legacy and Eden Gardens Knock
| Year | Milestone Description |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Kohli scores 92 in Kolkata heat vs Australia |
| 2018–2022 | Kohli leads India in all formats, sets fitness benchmarks |
| 2023 | Wins ICC Champions Trophy, maintains top fitness levels |
| 2025 | Prepares for Australia series at age 37 |
Kohli’s fitness regime includes plant-based nutrition, altitude training, and recovery protocols that rival Olympic athletes.
🗣️ Reactions from Cricketing World and Fans
- Michael Clarke: “Kohli’s fitness is the gold standard in world cricket.”
- Ravi Shastri: “He changed the culture of Indian cricket.”
- Fans on Social Media: “Kohli is not human. He’s a machine.”
| Stakeholder Group | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| Former Players | Applauding Kohli’s discipline and legacy |
| Fitness Experts | Citing Kohli as a global benchmark |
| Fans | Sharing clips and memes of the 2017 match |
| Media | Revisiting Kohli’s Eden Gardens innings |
Kohli’s ability to maintain intensity in extreme conditions has made him a role model for athletes across disciplines.
🧾 Kohli’s Fitness Blueprint – What Sets Him Apart
| Component | Description | Impact on Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Diet | Plant-based, high hydration | Sustained energy, faster recovery |
| Training | HIIT, strength, agility drills | Explosive movement, endurance |
| Recovery | Cryotherapy, physiotherapy, sleep hygiene | Injury prevention, mental clarity |
| Mindset | Meditation, visualization | Focus under pressure |
| Leadership | Fitness-first culture in Indian team | Team-wide transformation |
Kohli’s fitness transformation began in 2015 and has since redefined athletic standards in cricket.
🧭 What to Watch in Kohli’s Upcoming Australia Tour
- First ODI in Perth: Kohli’s return to face Richardson and co.
- Fitness Metrics: Expected to clock top sprint speeds and fielding stats
- Batting Form: Kohli’s ODI average vs Australia remains above 55
- Legacy Moments: Potential milestones in runs and centuries
Richardson concluded, “You don’t just play against Kohli. You survive him.”
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified player interviews, match records, and media reports as of October 17, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute performance prediction, health advice, or endorsement and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
