Former India fast bowler S Sreesanth has always been known for his fiery attitude on the field. From his animated wicket celebrations to the unforgettable six off Andre Nel during a Test match in South Africa, Sreesanth’s aggression was a hallmark of his cricketing persona. But in a recent podcast, the Kerala pacer opened up about another cricketer who’s often seen as the face of aggression in modern cricket — Virat Kohli.
“If He Reduces That Aggression, He Won’t Be the Same Player”
In a candid conversation with sports commentator Padamjit Shehrawat, Sreesanth was asked about Kohli’s often-discussed on-field aggression. Responding to the question, the former India pacer made it clear that he wouldn’t change a thing about Kohli’s demeanor.
“What others call aggression, I call it passion. Is Virat Kohli aggressive? No. I think he is obsessed. Virat’s aggression, people say, is a lot. I would say if he reduces that aggression, he won’t be the same player,” Sreesanth said on the podcast, as quoted by The Indian Express.
Shared Glory on the World Stage
Sreesanth and Kohli were both part of India’s historic 2011 ICC ODI World Cup-winning squad. Sreesanth also played a key role in India’s triumph in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. Kohli, on the other hand, added a new feather to his cap by finally winning his maiden T20 World Cup in 2024, cementing his legacy as one of the modern greats.
While the cricketing world often debates the fine line between aggression and passion, Sreesanth’s take adds an interesting perspective — one that sees Kohli’s fiery nature not as a flaw, but as a vital ingredient of his greatness.
