Aakash Chopra has lauded Virat Kohli’s remarkable evolution against legspin bowling in recent IPL seasons. The former India opener, now a prominent commentator, was especially impressed by Kohli’s “radical change” in approach—one that has paid rich dividends for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025.
Kohli, who recently retired from Test cricket, has continued to dominate in white-ball formats. With 602 runs in 13 innings and eight half-centuries, he has spearheaded RCB’s strong run into the playoffs, securing a top-two finish. His transformation, particularly against legspinners, has stood out this season.
“He’s Upgraded Like a Smartphone” – Chopra
Speaking on Star Sports after RCB’s win over Lucknow Super Giants, Chopra drew an interesting analogy:
“Whether it’s a smartphone or a smart batter, you need to update or upgrade the software regularly, and that’s what Kohli has done. That’s why he is Virat.”
Chopra highlighted how Kohli’s strike rate against legspin has seen a significant jump. From struggling to go beyond a 130 strike rate between 2020–2023, he now strikes at 146 against legspinners in IPL 2025. In fact, the previous season already showed signs of change, with a strike rate of 150 against them.
“In the last two seasons, you can see the difference—150 and 146. So obviously, there’s a radical change in the way he has batted.”
Kohli’s Sweeping Success
A key factor in Kohli’s improvement has been his enhanced range of shots. Chopra emphasized Kohli’s newfound comfort in playing slog sweeps and advancing down the track against legspinners—even when the ball is targeted at the stumps.
“He is clearing his front foot and taking on legspinners. He’s hitting boundaries off good-length balls and maintaining a strike rate of 139 against those. He is definitely upgraded.”
What’s Next for Kohli and RCB?
Kohli’s reinvention has not only silenced critics but also positioned RCB as strong contenders for the IPL 2025 title. They are set to take on Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on May 29 in New Chandigarh. The winner of this clash will go straight to the final, giving Kohli and RCB a golden chance to chase the elusive IPL trophy.
As Kohli continues to adapt and evolve, Chopra’s remarks echo the sentiment of millions of fans: the king still reigns, and he’s smarter than ever.
