On world book day, meet bookworm Virat Kohli

What’s the first thought that comes to your mind when you hear the name Virat Kohli? One of the greatest to have played the game. The batsman who revolutionized the Indian cricket by making fitness a core subject. But have you ever considered Kohli a book worm? Off field, of course, his glasses do give him a nerdy look at times but not many would picture Kohli sitting with peace, engrossed in a book at home because he is a man always at move trying to find out ways to outwit the opposition on field. But, remember the adage: don’t judge a book by its cover?

On world book day today (23rd April), we are going to tell you how Virat Kohli is one of the most voracious readers in the team who loves to pick cherries of wisdoms from them to better himself as a cricketer and human being.

Detox Your Ego

Last year during the India vs West Indies Test series, Virat Kohli was snapped reading Detox Your Ego: Seven Easy Steps to Achieving Freedom, Happiness and Success in Your Life' by Steven Sylvester during the 1st Test in Antigua. It came as a pleasant surprise for many fans and even for book publishers as the sales of the book shot up, and it went out of stock on Amazon. Talk about influencing the impressionable minds!

The book that made all the difference

Not very long ago, the skipper recommended a book to his fans and followers: ‘Autobiography of a Yogi’ by Paramahansa Yogananda. The skipper revealed that that book had made a huge difference in his life. “I love this book. A must read for all those who are brave enough to let their thoughts and ideologies be challenged. The understanding and implementation of the knowledge in this book will change your whole perspective and life. Believe in the divine and keep marching on doing good deeds #onelove #begratefu l#helponeanother,” Kohli tweeted.

Keeping it all ‘Open’

Andre Agassi’s autobiography is must read for all the sportspersons and followers. The former tennis player weaves a gripping tale through his life-story revealing the human side behind the stardom of a sportsperson. It was not surprising for Kohli to have develop a liking for the book. Ahead of the 2011 World Cup, Virat Kohli revealed why he liked Open. “I like Andre Agassi’s autobiography. The author tells the story of his remarkable career, which featured many ups and downs. The best part about the book is that at no point does the author try to project himself as a ‘superhuman’. He is as human as you and me, but a champion and an inspiration,” said Kohli.

So, next time you see Virat Kohli come up with out of the box strategies on the field, remember years of reading has gone behind that. And while you are at it, let us know in the comments section if you have read these books or wish to read.