New Delhi, April 4 (NationPress) Vicky Ostwal had always aspired to share the dressing room with Virat Kohli. However, when that dream became a reality during the training sessions of the defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of IPL 2026, the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder felt completely overwhelmed.

It wasn't on the field or while holding the ball, but in the dressing room where the cricketing idol he had long admired was now just a few feet away. At 23 years old, Ostwal is making his debut season with RCB after spending three years with Delhi Capitals.

He had heard plenty about RCB's vibrant culture, the supportive team atmosphere, and the enthusiastic fans chanting 'Aar-cee-bee' at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, especially during their first match and the upcoming clash against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday night. While he felt prepared for much of it, the encounter with Kohli took him by surprise.

“Seeing him for the first time was absolutely surreal for me. I lacked the courage to speak to him during our initial meeting. However, as we trained together, I found myself engaging in conversations about my tactical bowling approach, discussing strategies for T20 matches, and exploring the methods he employs to counter bowlers effectively,” Ostwal shared in an exclusive interview with IANS, facilitated by JSW Sports.

This initial awkwardness didn't last long. Training has a unique way of bridging the gap between seasoned players and newcomers. Once Ostwal began bowling to Kohli in the nets, productive discussions started to unfold. “I've had enriching discussions with him about tactics and he has been incredibly supportive,” he noted.

“After I bowl to him, I always make it a point to chat. He provides me invaluable feedback on what went awry and what I could improve upon, as well as what I executed well. Our discussions have been extremely beneficial,” he added.

The usual pattern was that Ostwal would bowl to Kohli, followed by a debrief. The key takeaway from Kohli, according to Ostwal, revolves around being proactive rather than reactive and anticipating the batter's moves.

“In formats like T20, when bowling against a skilled player, it’s crucial to stay one step ahead. I often ask him how to maintain that edge. He advises me to observe how the batter is playing and identify the shots they prefer. You can then execute a delivery that doesn’t align with what they desire,” he elaborated.

“By doing so, you can gain an advantage. If you're uncertain, it's best to stick with the fundamentals. Trust in your abilities and remember that you're here for a reason—so execute your strengths. If you can position the batter in a way that isn’t favorable for them, then back yourself to bowl the delivery they would struggle with. This mindset is crucial, especially in T20, where accuracy is paramount,” he continued.

Kohli isn't the only veteran shaping Ostwal's journey; he also looks up to Krunal Pandya, another senior left-arm spin bowling all-rounder and multiple IPL champion known for his ability to perform under pressure.

“He understands what it takes to win the IPL and the kind of performances required to secure victories in tense situations. He is the kind of player who shines when it matters most, which is exactly what teams seek,” Ostwal remarked.

“What I find particularly impressive about Krunal is his creativity in bowling—whether it's a yorker, bouncer, or a unique round-arm delivery. He approaches it with an innovative mindset. Last year, we even saw him bowl bouncers, which is quite uncommon. He is adept at devising strategies to outsmart batters and secure wickets or dot balls. I believe he possesses a unique flair and intelligence in his bowling,” he stated.

Beyond cricket, Ostwal has formed an unexpected off-field friendship with Venkatesh Iyer. “Despite being a senior player, he is approachable and enjoys having fun. We often play table tennis or PS5 together. Initially, I was hesitant to engage with him, but once I realized how great of a person he is, our friendship blossomed,” he shared.

Ostwal's journey to RCB has been paved through years of hard work in domestic cricket. Being the leading wicket-taker in India's triumph at the U-19 Asia Cup and the 2022 U-19 World Cup stands as one of his proudest achievements, opening doors to his time with DC. However, the transition from that high point to now wasn’t without challenges.

After struggling to make an impression at the senior level, he focused on claiming wickets and making significant runs in the U-23 circuit, recently earning the MA Chidambaram Award as the leading wicket-taker in the CK Nayudu Trophy for the 2024/25 season.

“The U-23 matches were pivotal for me. After the U-19 World Cup, I faced a year-long struggle to establish myself in the senior squad. However, during the last season of U-23, my goal was clear: to dominate and be the highest wicket-taker in India. I was thankful to achieve that, collecting wickets as well as scoring centuries and double centuries, which set the stage for my participation in the Maharashtra Ranji team this year,” he reflected.

His stellar form continued in the Ranji Trophy, where he captured 23 wickets in seven matches, along with eight and seven wickets in the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, respectively.

“Playing all three formats this year was a significant milestone for me. It’s what every player hopes for from their association. I was fortunate to have the chance to participate in all three formats and enjoyed a solid run throughout the season,” he said.

“While I don’t believe I did anything extraordinary, I performed well for my team. I took several five-wicket hauls in red-ball games and was consistent in T20s and ODIs, maintaining good economy rates. In the red-ball format, I also secured five-wicket hauls and ranked among the top wicket-takers for Maharashtra. Overall, it was a successful season for me,” he summarized.

The question on everyone's mind is when Ostwal will make his IPL debut. He believes it's all about seizing the opportunity when it arises. “I’ve discussed this often; everyone has their own destiny. You just keep striving, and eventually, you’ll get your chance, which you must seize wholeheartedly. I'm not rushing or feeling anxious; I simply want to work hard and trust that my moment will come,” he explained.

For now, his complete focus is on RCB—a team he considers a genuine privilege to be part of, one that challenges him both on and off the field. He has joined a franchise that won the trophy last year and aspires to contribute to another victory.

With Kohli mentoring him and dissecting his game delivery by delivery, Ostwal feels he is in the right place at the right time. “It’s a tremendous blessing for me to be part of such a phenomenal franchise, surrounded by outstanding players and coaches. As a player, I’m always thrilled to engage with them and discuss cricket, fitness, skills, and mental preparation,” he concluded. “Winning the trophy again is absolutely my dream and goal.”