By Raghavendra Dwivedi, often known as Raghu, is highly appreciated by Virat Kohli and other Indian cricketers for his important position as a throwdown expert. His services have substantially improved Indian cricketers’ batting skills, especially against quick bowling.
Key Contributions to Team India
* Throwdown Expertise: Raghu specializes in providing throwdowns at speeds ranging from 150 to 155 km/h, simulating the problems that fast bowlers face. This unique skill enables players to train against genuine pace and bounce, which is critical for their performance in international matches.Kohli has credited Raghu for boosting the team’s ability to handle fast bowling, claiming that his conditioning methods have contributed significantly to their success against such bowlers.
* Support Role: In addition to technical skills, Raghu provides emotional support and motivation to players. Kohli has freely stated that Raghu’s efforts frequently go underappreciated, despite being the foundation of the team’s success.Raghu’s ability to prepare players for high-pressure situations has earned him admiration from cricket legends such as MS Dhoni, who refers to him as “Team India’s foreign bowler” due to his exceptional bowling speed and technique.His rise from humble beginnings—where he suffered major personal hardships—to becoming a vital part of India’s cricket system demonstrates his dedication and resilience.
Personal Journey
Raghu’s rise to prominence in Indian cricket began with his passion for the game, despite initial opposition from his family. After joining the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2008 and progressing through the ranks, he became a training assistant in 2011. His unwavering dedication to assisting players in honing their skills has made him an unsung hero on the club.
Virat Kohli admires Raghu because of his vital role in improving his batting skills against fast bowlers, his supportive presence during training sessions, and his inspiring life path, which many athletes can relate to.
