'No comparison between Virat of U19 and him now' - Siddarth Kaul shares stories of growing up playing cricket with Kohli [Exclusive]

In an exclusive interaction with CricTracker, Siddarth Kaul reflected on his journey from Under-19 cricket to the senior Indian team, noting how players like Virat Kohli evolved in fitness, maturity, and mental toughness. He emphasised learning from senior teammates, valuing their guidance over questioning selection decisions. Despite limited international appearances, Kaul credits perseverance and hard work for eventual success.

On retirement, the pacer stressed leaving the game on his own terms, inspired by legends who exited at their peak. Currently, he contributes through mentorship, bridging communication between players and coaches, and helping players express themselves constructively.

Excerpt from the interview

You’ve shared nets and matches with Virat Kohli since U19—how different is he as a senior Indian player compared to then?

I think it’s all about a boy growing into a man. Cricket helps you mature - not just as a player, but as a human being and in the way you live your life. Every day, you keep learning how to be a better person and a better player.

Looking at Virat, the way he has performed and conquered the cricketing world - as a fitness freak and a dominant player internationally - is truly outstanding. There’s no comparison between the Virat of Under-19 and the Virat in the senior Indian team. The difference is clear in every aspect: fitness, maturity, mental toughness, and skills.

The records speak for themselves. That’s why no one can really question him or say he needs to work on something else. He has done a tremendous job with himself.

Who among your senior Indian teammates has given you the most confidence?

I think everyone had an influence on me. I never felt like nobody guided me. Everyone I met and shared the dressing room with always told me what was right and wrong - what I should do and what I shouldn’t. It was a great learning experience, especially from the experienced players who have been playing for 10 or even 15 years. Being around them was truly a cherry on top.

You’ve played just 6 international matches — what went wrong? Did you ever ask your captain or the management about your non-selection?

I think nothing really went wrong. Maybe their thought process about picking other players was different. I know I’ve always given 110% whenever I play, and I believe that in life, you get what is meant for you. It’s not about asking, “Why am I not getting selected?” or dwelling on it. That hardly matters to me.

I’m a hard-working person, and I keep putting in the effort every single day. I also have strong faith in Bhagawan, believing that He and my parents’ blessings guide me. For me, it’s been a great learning experience.

Rather than questioning why I wasn’t picked earlier, I focused on my hard work. I got selected after 10 years of effort, and that was the result of perseverance. I never asked, “I’m performing so much, why am I not getting in?” When I finally got selected, it was proof that hard work pays off, and I truly felt that I had earned it.

You decided to retire at your peak—I still feel you had years left. Was this move about going out on your terms?

I think it’s really important to step away from cricket on your own terms. Being pushed out by someone else doesn’t feel right. I’ve always felt it’s better to leave at your peak rather than when things are declining.

I’ve seen great players do the same - Mahi bhai, Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting, and even Usain Bolt, who dominated in his sport. They all chose to retire while still at the top of their game. Watching that, I realized it’s a valuable lesson: it’s always better to make the decision yourself rather than be pushed out by circumstances.

Do you have plans for coaching, commentary, or cricket administration after your retirement?

There’s no fixed plan for me; I go with the flow and take opportunities as they come. For example, PCA recently called me up to do mentorship for senior players, the Under-23 boys, and the women’s senior team. I’m doing that, and in the process, I’m learning a lot - understanding the mindset of players, coaches, and management.

In this role, I act as a bridge, making the connection stronger so that players don’t feel hurt and coaches don’t feel like players aren’t giving their 110%. It’s all about perspective. I help players feel secure about their places and encourage them to express their thoughts. 

Many players in the Indian circuit don’t openly express their feelings - they only share when they’re hurt or with someone they trust. My job is to be that trusted person so that I can communicate their concerns to the coaches in a constructive way, avoiding misunderstandings or ego clashes.