Liam Livingstone revealed insights about Virat Kohli’s off-field personality, according to Hindustan Times. During an interview, the England all-rounder shared details about his time with Kohli at Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, highlighting the batting star’s preference for a quieter life outside cricket.
What happened
Playing alongside Kohli during IPL 2025, Livingstone described a noticeable contrast between Kohli’s competitive nature on the field and his calm demeanor off it. “On the field, he’s ultra-competitive. But, away from cricket, he is a really nice, chill guy, loves spending time with his family,” Livingstone stated on the Stick to Cricket Podcast.
Kohli, known for his fierce performance, has focused more on family and personal well-being in recent years. Livingstone noted Kohli’s preference for a quieter existence, revealing that he often avoids the public attention that comes with his fame in India. “He doesn’t really want the eyes on him all the time. He is a genuinely nice guy,” Livingstone added.
Why it matters
Kohli’s balancing act between his public persona as a cricket star and his private life is emblematic of the challenges faced by athletes in the spotlight. The demands of fame can lead to significant stress and affect personal well-being. Kohli’s choice to prioritize family and inner peace highlights a growing acknowledgment of mental health in sports.
Background
On May 27, 2025, Kohli led RCB to their first IPL title. His competitive spirit on the field contributed significantly to the victory. Since then, he has increasingly sought solace in family life, spending time away from the media frenzy in India and embracing a more spiritual lifestyle.
What’s next
Kohli’s performance in IPL 2026 continues to draw attention as he aims to enhance his batting approach. He finished the season as RCB’s leading run-scorer, and ongoing coaching support from RCB’s staff may further evolve his game in upcoming seasons.
