“Virat Kohli urged…”- Ranji Trophy 2025/26 leading run-getter reveals veteran’s crucial advice

Even though Delhi didn’t qualify for the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy 2025/26, their rising star, Ayush Doseja, cracked an unbeaten knock of 159 runs to help his side force a draw against Mumbai. He also ended up being the leading run-getter of the group-stage with 949 runs in 12 innings at an average of 105.44, thanks to four centuries and five half-centuries at the best score of 209 runs.

Doseja has expressed his desire to emulate the discipline and fitness of the Indian icon, Virat Kohli, whom he idolizes. He believes that adopting the professional routine is vital for maintaining the high level of performance he showed in the breakout year.

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“I have been idolizing him since childhood. When he was out in the second match (of the Vijay Hazare Trophy), I got some time to talk to him. He told me that if I am going to the ground, I have to give 200 percent because you are representing Delhi and it is a big deal. If I want to play for India, I have to keep the same mindset.” The Delhi batter expressed after the game against Mumbai.

Ayush Doseja reveals Virat Kohli's suggestion after dominance in Ranji Trophy 2025/26

Doseja proved to be a model of consistency by recording the centuries and fifties in seven outings. His ability to anchor the innings established him as one of the strongest players in the domestic circuit.

“(Kohli said) ‘If you are going to the ground, you have to dominate and not play in survival mode’. This was the message, and I followed his fitness regime a lot and spoke about it as well. I also try to keep a good diet and keep myself match-fit as much as possible.” The 23-year-old shed light.

“I went to him myself. Sarfaraz is such a big player in domestic cricket, and I asked him how I can improve in red soil. I try to become a three-format player. I prepare equally in white-ball. He told me that in red soil, if you bat with your head down, it will be better (and that way) you would hit fewer casual shots because it bounces. He said I could vary my game in red soil and black soil, but that I have to see in the middle.” The Delhi batter concluded.