In an unexpected and somewhat funny moment during a recent talk show, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir shocked viewers by saying he would pick Virat Kohli's body if he had to make the choice. The statement quickly spread across social media, and the laughter and admiration from fans and analysts alike has now gone viral. 

Gambhir, who is quite serious and intense, made this comment when he was asked, on a fitness-themed segment of the show, which cricketer's body he would swap with for a day. Without hesitation, Gambhir said Kohli, and he subsequently gave his reason, which was both authentic and surprising. 

Gambhir said Kohli's fitness level is "next-level," and the standard Kohli has set as a commitment toward maintaining his body and maximizing his physical condition has not only changed his game but also the level of conditioning in Indian cricket. "If I could get even a day in that body, I'd want to know how I am able to be that agile, that muscular, and still have that much in the tank after hours on the field," Gambhir said with a chuckle.

A Rivalry of Respect Turns into Admiration

What makes Gambhir's statement more interesting is the context regarding the two players. Kohli and Gambhir have had several up close and personal encounters over the years, which later turned into conversations about rivalry, particularly because of the way they interacted with each other on the field. Still, this seems to be a more nuanced take, suggesting that there is some level of respect from Gambhir to Kohli regarding the efforts put into fitness and professionalism.

Watch the video here

pic.twitter.com/RSDMfNiz26

— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) May 6, 2025

Also Read: Did You Know? RCB have never won an IPL Trophy or a Fair Play award!

 “You either love or hate his attitude, but surely he brings in a great level of discipline. To achieve that level of fitness takes so much effort, a lot of dedication, a strict diet, and consistency," the World Cup winner said

With each passing second as people involve themselves deeper in analyzing every detail of the instance, cricket fandom is excited for the sheer reason of his outspoken nature and personally facing and admiring brilliance and bias for sport. It’s amusing yet motivational that some of the greatest rivaled sporting icons can look beyond personal egos and respect one another.