VVS Laxman, the head of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE), today showered praise on legendary Indian batter Virat Kohli, describing him as an ‘exemplary professional’ and a ‘great role model’ for the cricketing fraternity.
Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru on Sunday, Laxman highlighted Kohli’s relentless commitment to excellence and his profound impact on younger players .
“I think there is no doubt that Virat is an exemplary professional. And the standards he sets for himself are something which he tries and goes out every time he plays (for) whichever team to meet those standards,’ Laxman told reporters as per Times of India. He further added, ‘And that’s why he is a great role model. And I think a lot of youngsters or players want to emulate him.’
Virat Kohli’s Enduring Legacy
Kohli, who turned 37 in November 2025, continues to be a pivotal figure in international cricket, despite having retired from T20 Internationals in 2024 and Test cricket in May 2025. His illustrious career boasts an incredible tally of 85 international centuries, comprising 30 in Tests, 54 in One Day Internationals (ODIs), and one in T20Is. He also holds the record for the most ODI centuries by any player, with 54 tons to his name. With over 28,000 international runs across formats, Kohli’s consistency and dedication have cemented his status among the sport’s all-time greats.
His recent performances in ODIs, including scores of 74, 65, and 5 against England in July 2026, demonstrate his continued prowess in the 50-over format. Laxman’s comments underscore the widespread admiration for Kohli’s approach to the game, an ethos that has seen him set unprecedented benchmarks for fitness, skill, and integrity.
Laxman’s Role at BCCI CoE
Laxman, a former India batter himself, has been heading the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence since December 2021. During the press briefing, he also confirmed extending his tenure at the CoE for another two years, reaffirming his commitment to nurturing the next generation of Indian cricketers. His leadership at the CoE is crucial for the development pathways and injury management of India’s talent pool.
Virat Kohli’s remarkable journey, marked by consistent record-breaking performances and an unyielding commitment to his craft, continues to inspire millions. VVS Laxman’s tribute serves as a testament to the profound influence Kohli wields, not just as a player but as an icon of professionalism in the global cricketing arena.