Duffy Hails Kohli's Humility Ahead of India ODIs

New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy has heaped praise on Virat Kohli, saying the Indian legend remains remarkably down to earth despite his enormous stature in the country. Duffy spoke as he prepares to face Kohli in the ODI series that begins on November 4.

Duffy and Kohli were teammates at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during IPL 2026. The pair shared a dressing room, and Duffy regularly bowled to Kohli in the nets, giving him a firsthand look at the batter's approach.

Addressing the media on Sunday, Duffy described a recent encounter at the gym, calling it a very positive experience. He said Kohli had been warm and friendly towards him.

'Yesterday I met him at the gym, and he was really good to me,' Duffy said. 'In India he is treated like a god, a true megastar, but he is so humble. He makes overseas players like us feel welcome at RCB, and I really respect that. Now that I've shared a dressing room with him, going up against him is going to be special.'

Duffy revealed that during their time together at RCB, the two had long conversations about strategies for playing in India. He was full of admiration for Kohli's work ethic and approach to the game.

'He always batted first in the nets and I was always the first bowler, so we spent a lot of time against each other,' Duffy said. 'It was a great experience. Since he has watched me closely, I am sure he will be well prepared.'

The New Zealand pacer said the two frequently talked about cricketing nuances, including the characteristics of specific Indian pitches. Some surfaces differ considerably, and Kohli had explained how to adjust lines and lengths on them, as well as how he adapts himself. Duffy said these small but meaningful tips had been very helpful.

Duffy also made it clear that he loves 50-over cricket. He called the five-match series against India an important stepping stone for the 2027 World Cup, scheduled in South Africa at the same time next year.

'Personally, I love ODI cricket,' Duffy said. 'The ball swings early, you can bowl a hard length, and the final overs bring a flood of fours and sixes. The World Cup is next year in South Africa and I think it is our top priority.'

Reflecting on his own journey, Duffy said he grew up watching the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, which he considers the sport's greatest stages. Those were the tournaments he followed as a boy, worked hard for, and dreamed of being part of.

'These matches play a big role in the lead-up to a World Cup,' he said. 'We are always working hard to secure our place in the team and strengthen our claim.'