Virat Kohli’s infectious energy rubs off on players: Ravi Ashwin

India all-rounder Ravi Ashwin feels Virat Kohli’s passion and his energy level on the field is quite contagious. It is a well-documented fact that Kohli loves to be aggressive and always wears his heart on his sleeve, be it while captaining or batting. The off-spinner's comments have come on India skipper’s 33rd birthday on Friday (November 5).

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While the rest of the cricketing experts like VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, and Sunil Gavaskar have wished Kohli by calling him run-machine and once in a generation player, Ashwin has lauded his leadership qualities.

The off-spinner said he envies the Indian skipper’s energy levels and said he has brought that aggressive culture within the team. “With respect to having dealt with him as a leader in the red-ball format, All I can say is he plays with his heart on his sleeve. Sometimes, when I watch Virat lead the side, I feel like how does he manage to bring so much energy. I really envy Virat’s energy level on the field and off it,” Ashwin said in a video posted by Star Sports.

Ashwin further opined that players also absorb Kohli’s infectious energy and try to play with a fearless mindset. “I think that the energy he infuses on the field really absorbs on people. One thing is you can stand up tall and I can say at the top of my voice is the kind of culture he has brought in the team.”

The off-spinner has predominantly played with Kohli in the red-ball format as a leader. It is fair to say that, the Indian skipper has thrived in Test format as a leader. He always is one to pump the players and audience, and goes for a win in all circumstances, rather than settling for a draw. It is this attitude of ruthlessness Kohli has brought in the Indian dressing room.