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Virat Kohli Sends Strong IPL Message After Questions Over Backing Young Stars

Cricket Gully | May 16, 2026 1:39 PM CST

Fandom has completely changed the Indian Premier League (IPL). Young supporters who grew up watching T20 cricket now see the game differently from previous generations. Many of them care more about a player from Mumbai Indians or Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) performing well than the success of the Indian team itself.

Cricket is developing into a football-like system where teams become more important than national teams. The sport progresses in that direction regardless of whether people support it or not. RCB fans felt disappointed after Prince Yadav dismissed Virat Kohli for a duck and then revealed that Kohli had given him advice which led to his successful wicket-taking.

The IPL began as a program to enhance the performance of Indian cricket according to fans who do not remember this fact. Kohli strongly believes in that idea as well. When veterans assist younger players to develop their abilities, they elevate the entire league which results in positive outcomes for Indian cricket. This has always been a normal part of the game. Cricket has worked this way for generations.

The wobble ball which now serves as a training tool for nearly all fast bowlers in international cricket emerged as a popular delivery device during the County Championship which features players from various countries competing together. MS Dhoni learned the helicopter shot from one of his teammates. Throughout cricket history, players have constantly learned from one another and improved their games.

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Kohli understands this better than most. He has no issue helping Yashasvi Jaiswal because the young batter will provide long-term value to Indian cricket by representing India for many years. Jaiswal may even use Kohli’s advice to defeat RCB one day but that is part of competitive sport. Strong teams and players grow only when they face tough challenges and still manage to succeed.

Kohli explained his dismissal against the Lucknow Super Giants because he shared the dressing room with Prince during the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT). The two built a friendship, and Kohli, being 13 years older, guided the pacer with field placements, bowling strategies, and several other aspects of the game.

Kohli showed the value of sharing his knowledge when he taught upcoming cricketers his professional expertise during the discussion.Young players need to continue their development according to him. Kohli considers his mission to sustain Indian cricket excellence through his retirement and the departure of other cricket legends as his main objective.