Virat Kohli has been known for his fitness apart from his cricketing skills. Someone who runs like a beast between the wickets once tagged the former strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai as a "maniac." Recently, in his LinkedIn account, Soham Desai has narrated an anecdote involving Virat Kohli that revealed both humor and respect in their professional bond. Desai first met the Indian batting icon at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in 2018 during the IPL season. Kohli had walked in looking for the physiotherapist, and their introduction was brief. Desai wrote, “I ask, ‘Need any help?’ He replies with a straight face, ‘I’m good.’ Simple. Direct." That moment passed quickly. But, three months later, Desai’s role changed dramatically when fitness assessments began ahead of India’s Test tour of England. Desai recounted that then head S&C coach Shanker Basu asked him to assist Kohli with his fitness regime. What followed was an exchange that left everyone amused. Desai recalled, “Basu Sir looks at me—‘Help VK with his routine.’ Virat glances at me, grins and quips: ‘No way I’m running with this guy—he runs like a maniac!’ Cue the laughter. Quick wit, quick camaraderie." Read also: No Indians in SA20 2025-26 Auction List as 541 Players Finalized He added that Kohli built trust not on words but on observation. Desai further wrote, “Respect isn’t built in handshakes. It’s earned when professionals watch each other work—see the hustle, the honest effort, the awareness that sets the elite apart. Virat doesn’t rely on what he’s heard—he sees, he observes, he registers everything." The former coach stressed that reputation alone never guaranteed trust in Kohli’s eyes. He added, “It’s not about fancy titles, big moments, or glowing resumes. Real buy-in starts with honest performance, long before any formal role exists." Soham Desai’s post offered a rare glimpse into how one of cricket’s fittest players values precision, discipline, and effort beyond formalities—while keeping room for humor in intense routines.