'Very sensitive to criticism': Sanjay Manjrekar makes big Virat Kohli revelation
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes Virat Kohli is “very sensitive to criticism” despite often saying he ignores outside noise. Manjrekar revealed Kohli sometimes became “cold” towards him after negative remarks. He added criticism may motivate Kohli to perform better.
Manjrekar also praised Kohli’s aggressive leadership in Test cricket, calling him one of India’s greatest captains during his successful tenure.
NEW DELHI: One of the greatest batters of all time, Virat Kohli, may often say he ignores outside noise, but former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes the star batter pays close attention to criticism directed at him. Speaking on Sportstar's Insight Edge Podcast, Manjrekar said Kohli, who is currently playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), would sometimes become "cold” towards him during tosses after hearing negative comments made about his performances. According to Manjrekar, Kohli is “very sensitive to criticism” and usually gets to know “what’s being said about him”.
Manjrekar said, “So he's one of those first guys who kept saying, you know, we don't care about what people say… but he's also very sensitive. ” He added that criticism may actually motivate Kohli, saying it could “spur him on to get that next big hundred. ” Kohli has had a mixed IPL 2026 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
He started strongly but recently suffered back-to-back ducks against Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians. Manjrekar also praised Kohli’s leadership in Test cricket, calling him one of India’s greatest captains. He explained how Kohli kept energy levels high even when conditions were difficult for bowlers.