NEW DELHI: To say that Virat Kohli enjoys a demi-god status in India would be an understatement. He is one of the most celebrated athletes in the country, transcending the sport of cricket to become a global icon.
Kohli has had several notable performances in Kanpur's Green Park Stadium, one of India's oldest cricket venues where the second Test between India and Bangladesh is being held.
Although Kohli's international appearances in Kanpur are limited due to the rotation of venues across India, he has still made an impact in the matches played there.
As the toss for the second Test was delayed due to wet outfield, the Green Park ground staff was busy covering the field in an effort to start the match as soon as possible.
In a video doing rounds on the internet, a glimpse of Kohli's fame can be witnessed. As the ground staff is busy with a big cover, Virat walks past them with a bat in his hand to probably do some knocking.
Besotted with the Indian superstar all of the ground staff just look on in awe at the former Indian captain. And then one of them walks down to Kohli and tries to touch his feet. Virat is clearly surprised but keeps his calm and continues to walk after seemingly asking the staff not to do so.
Kohli's fame and stardom represent the new age of Indian cricketers - a blend of traditional cricket values with a modern, global approach to sports, fitness, and branding.
Kohli is not just admired for his cricketing abilities but for his larger-than-life persona that has made him an icon in India and around the world.
