Vicky Ostwal, a left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, fulfilled his dream of sharing the dressing room with Virat Kohli during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s practice sessions for IPL 2026. Despite freezing initially, Ostwal engaged in tactical discussions with Kohli, seeking advice on bowling strategies in T20 matches. Their interactions evolved into valuable insights on staying ahead of the game and proactive bowling approaches.
Practice sessions bridged the gap between Ostwal and Kohli, fostering meaningful conversations on bowling techniques and game strategies. Kohli emphasized the importance of proactive thinking and anticipating the batter’s moves, guiding Ostwal to outsmart opponents in T20 games. The young cricketer valued Kohli’s mentorship, especially in enhancing his strategic mindset and on-field performance.
Apart from Kohli, Ostwal also draws inspiration from Krunal Pandya, another seasoned left-arm spin bowling all-rounder. Pandya’s ability to excel under pressure and innovate bowling tactics captivates Ostwal, who aspires to emulate his clutch performances. Observing Pandya’s creativity in bowling variations, Ostwal admires his strategic acumen and adaptability on the field.
In addition to cricket, Ostwal has formed a camaraderie with Venkatesh Iyer off the field, engaging in friendly activities like table tennis and video games. Reflecting on his journey to RCB, Ostwal credits his success to years of hard work in domestic cricket, highlighted by significant achievements in U-19 and U-23 tournaments. His consistent performance in various formats earned him recognition and opportunities to showcase his skills at higher levels.
Looking ahead, Ostwal remains focused on making his IPL debut and seizing the moment when it arrives. Embracing the challenges and learnings within RCB’s dynamic environment, he aims to contribute to the team’s success and pursue his dream of clinching the IPL trophy. Surrounded by experienced players and coaches, Ostwal values the enriching interactions that enhance his cricketing skills and overall development.
