Cricket, a sport that is sculpted in such a way that it allows a youngster to rub shoulders against the best in the world, and also to pick a leaf out of their books.

Speaking to Times of India [TOI], Sanju Samson spoke highly of Virat Kohli, stating that the optimistic and enthusiastic charisma of the skipper always keeps the dressing room atmosphere lively.

“It was the first time I was spending time with Virat Bhai in the dressing room. He is a very energetic guy. He is very happy, smiling and laughing almost all the time. He makes sure the dressing room is lively and full of energy. He may be very serious when it comes to work otherwise, but he's very chill and he is a very happy person to be around. The Indian dressing room is so positive and full of energy under Virat Bhai and Ravi sir. They both keep the dressing room's energy level high, " Sanju Samson was quoted as saying. 

Despite whipping the Blackcaps 5-0 in the T20Is, India displayed a mediocre performance in the other two formats. However, Sanju Samson admitted that the tour was definitely a learning curve for him, particularly interacting with Virat Kohli and acquiring a few trades from him.

“So, whenever I'm around Virat Bhai, you will see me smiling or laughing. But at the same time, almost everyone in the team, we always look forward to learning something from him. During the tour, I took a number of batting tips and fitness lessons from Virat Bhai,” he added.

Samson added that he admires the way that Virat Kohli carries himself on and off the field. He also feels that any youngster coming through the ranks must adopt Virat's approach to the sport in order to harbour the dreams of playing international cricket for a long period. 

“He is one of the best players in the world. Whenever I go to the gym, I always see him working out during a tour. He is very punctual and never misses his daily routines or schedules at any cost. The way he takes care of himself, the way he takes his nutrition, the way he trains, the way he takes recovery, he is a role model to me and to everyone. I think every youngster should follow how he is taking care of himself and how he performs at the highest level,” Samson said. 

[TOI inputs]