IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reveals toughest bowlers across format for him ahead of RCB vs CSK clash

Virat Kohli is widely considered one of the best batters in the history of the game. There have been hardly any instances where the legendary India batter has looked out of sorts or looked in trouble facing any bowler. But recently, Virat expressed who he thought the toughest bowlers in each format of cricket were. It is clear from his vast experience at the highest level that Kohli is expressing players who have historically challenged him. Kohli's choices show not only his technical understanding but also respect for the top-class bowlers who have tested him over the years.

Kohli identified England's James Anderson as the toughest bowler he has faced when asked about Test cricket. The 36-year-old batter mentioned that Anderson's strength lies in how he can swing the ball both ways and also reverse swing the ball, particularly in English conditions. Kohli also touched on how Anderson feels particularly difficult to face due to his experience and ability to control all areas of the game, making him a difficult opponent for any batter, especially when the ball is swinging off the pitch or moving in the air.

In addition to it, when the ace India player was asked question about T20 cricket, he identified Sunil Narine as the toughest bowler he has faced so far. The former RCB spinner praised Narine for being the toughest and also said that Narine in T20 cricket was difficult to face due to his variations. Kohli also noted that Narine’s control over his line, length, and pace changes forces batters to guess and adapt constantly, making him a formidable presence in T20 matches around the world.

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Lasith Malinga was toughest to face in ODIs

In ODI cricket, Virat Kohli identifies Lasith Malinga as one of the toughest pacers he has faced. He points to Malinga’s unorthodox action and his ability to generate late swing at high speeds as major challenges for any batter. Kohli acknowledges how Malinga's unpredictable deliveries, especially the toe-crushing yorkers, made him a unique threat during his prime. His pace, combined with movement, often left even top batters with little time to react, making him a standout bowler in ODI cricket.

When it comes to spin in ODIs, Kohli considers Adil Rashid to be one of the most challenging. He praises Rashid for cleverly disguising his variations while maintaining tight lines and lengths, which makes it difficult to read him. According to Kohli, Rashid’s consistency and subtle changes in pace limit scoring opportunities and keep batters under constant pressure. Kohli's selections reflect the high regard he has for bowlers who combine skill, strategy, and unpredictability—traits that elevate them in competitive international cricket across formats.