In IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s opener Virat Kohli has been a run-scoring juggernaut, amassing 443 runs in 10 matches at an average of 63.28, including 6 fifties. He’s also the first batter globally to notch a century of half-centuries. Yet, even the indomitable King Kohli admits to being rattled by certain bowlers. In a candid revelation at an RCB event, captured in a viral social media video, Kohli named four bowlers whose deliveries he finds daunting, sparking widespread buzz among fans.

When asked about the toughest bowlers he’s faced, Kohli didn’t hold back. “In Tests, England’s James Anderson is the hardest to face, especially in England. In T20s, KKR’s Sunil Narine’s bowling remains a mystery to me even now. In ODIs, Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga and England’s Adil Rashid are incredibly challenging,” he said. This admission, particularly about Anderson’s dominance during India’s 2014 England tour, highlights Kohli’s honesty in acknowledging his vulnerabilities, endearing him further to fans.

Statistics back Kohli’s claims. In Tests, Anderson has dismissed him 7 times across 36 innings, with Kohli scoring 305 runs. In the IPL, Narine has outfoxed him 4 times in 17 innings, restricting Kohli to a strike rate of 105.42. In ODIs, Rashid has claimed his wicket 5 times in 10 innings, while Malinga has done so twice in 7. These bowlers consistently test Kohli’s technique and patience, making their battles a spectacle. Posted on X by

@KohliSensation on May 3, 2025, the video has fueled discussions about Kohli’s approach.

Kohli’s openness reflects his mental strength, embracing weaknesses as opportunities for growth. As fans dissect his comments, the question looms: will Kohli devise new strategies to counter these bowlers? His next encounters with Anderson, Narine, Rashid, and Malinga are sure to draw keen attention.