Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar compared Virat Kohli’s attitude to Amitabh Bachchan’s famous ‘angry young man’ roles in Bollywood.
Bangar, who served as India’s interim head coach in 2017, said Kohli’s bold and aggressive nature came at the right time for Indian cricket, especially when the team was adjusting after the retirement of senior players. He also explained that just like Bachchan’s movies left a big impact, Kohli’s style had the same effect on Indian cricket.
Sanjay Bangar said that Virat Kohli’s personality is naturally bold and fearless, and that’s what makes him genuine. He explained that a natural character always connects with people. Just like Amitabh Bachchan’s movies from 1975 to 1980 became popular because his “angry young man” image reflected the hidden anger in Indian society at that time, Kohli’s attitude also clicked with fans.
The 52-year-old praised Kohli, saying his attitude improved Indian Test cricket and gave it a better reputation.
“Indian cricket needed more aggression after the retirement of the fabulous four. Kohli had to lead the team forward, and he did it in his own way. He completely changed how India plays and approaches Test cricket,” he added.
Kohli’s achievements are impressive, especially in Test cricket. He captained India in 68 Tests from 2014 to 2022 and became India’s most successful Test captain. During his leadership, India won 40 matches, lost 17, and drew 11, giving him a win rate of 58.82%. He also led the team to the top spot in the ICC Test rankings.
Kohli has decided to retire from T20 internationals after the 2024 T20 World Cup final and from Test cricket before the five-match series against England. He is expected to play next for India in the three-match ODI tour of Australia.
FAQ
Who is Sanjay Bangar?
Sanjay Bangar is a former Indian cricketer and coach who has worked with the Indian national team.
What did Sanjay Bangar say about Virat Kohli?
Bangar compared Kohli’s natural, aggressive personality to Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Angry Young Man’ image in 1970s Indian cinema.
Why does Bangar compare Kohli to Amitabh Bachchan?
He feels Kohli’s passionate, in-your-face attitude is similar to the strong, angry characters Bachchan portrayed, which resonated with society at the time.
What is meant by ‘natural character’?
Bangar means that Kohli’s bold and aggressive behavior is genuine and comes naturally, rather than being forced.
How did the ‘Angry Young Man’ concept impact Amitabh Bachchan’s films?
It made his films popular in the 1970s because audiences connected with his portrayal of frustration and rebellion, which reflected societal feelings then.
