"Comes from sheer hard work, not something that happens naturally" - Sanjay Manjrekar on Virat Kohli's incredible fitness 

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes that Virat Kohli's focus on fitness has had a major impact on his cricketing career, helping him generate great strength while batting.

Kohli hit a fantastic century during Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) IPL 2023 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Thursday, May 18. He suggested that the bat was able to hit a lot of powerful shots, which were also due to how fit he is.

He pointed out that many players struggle to generate power towards the back end of their careers. Manjrekar, however, suggested that the likes of Kohli and Faf du Plessis haven't had any such problems.

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo after RCB's eight-wicket win over SRH, he said:

"Today was another example of how fitness is the key for people, especially who are aging and not 20-year-olds. One of the things that you need in T20 cricket is power. And sometimes, aging players struggle to get that in the game.

"Faf du Plessis this season has hit the ball more powerfully than he has ever done. Virat Kohli today showed us with that 100-meter six that he still has that strength. That comes from sheer hard work. It is not something that happens naturally."

Bangalore were chasing a tricky 187-run target against Hyderabad. Kohli and du Plessis sealed the game for their team, stitching together a brilliant 172-run opening partnership.

While Kohli scored 100 runs in 63 balls, du Plessis finished with 71 runs off 47 deliveries as RCB clinched a crucial victory to climb to fourth place in the IPL 2023 points table.

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"Playing his best cricket" - Tom Moody on RCB skipper Faf du Plessis

During the discussion, former Australian cricketer Tom Moody mentioned that Faf du Plessis has been playing his best cricket currently. He noted that the veteran batter is supremely fit and doesn't look tired while batting.

He emphasized that both du Plessis and Virat Kohli have set a great example for youngsters with their fitness journeys. Moody elaborated:

"Another great innings from him [Faf du Plessis]. He is having a remarkable season in the IPL this year. 38 years old, playing his best cricket. The fitness side of it, just holds firm in that 20 overs.

"They are batting that 20 overs and not losing shape, they are not fatigued. They are running those twos. So, they are showing every cricketer that's coming through the system the template."

Faf du Plessis and Co. will take on defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the final league fixture of the season. The match will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday, May 21.