'Virat Kohli is My Idol, I would Touch his Feet': Punjab Kings' new boy dreams IPL 2026 Personal Frame

Virat Kohli inspires a billion fans worldwide, and Punjab Kings' Vishal Nishad is among them. And the youngster says dismissing his idol wouldn't just be a dream come true, as he vows to touch Kohli's feet in reverence.

Punjab Kings' new boy Vishal Nishad is gearing up for his Indian Premier League debut this season. The 20-year-old spinner opened up during the team's pre-season camp in Udaipur, sharing his inspiring journey marked by determination and family support.

Virat Kohli is Vishal Nishad's Idol

A die-hard admirer of Virat Kohli, Nishad credits the cricket icon for fueling his passion. "My idol is Virat Kohli. I am inspired by his attitude and his drive; he's my favorite," Nishad said while speaking with the franchise.

When asked how he'd react to dismissing his hero, the

young bowler displayed remarkable humility. "If I take his wicket, I'll touch his feet because he's my idol," he replied.

Nishad's path from humble beginnings to the IPL underscores resilience. "There were tough times. I used to go with my father and help him [with work]. I even thought I'd quit cricket," Nishad recalled.

"My mother told me to leave it and learn something else because becoming a cricketer is so difficult. But I didn't give up. I told her, 'Mom, I will definitely do it. ' Once they saw my resolve, my family stood behind me. "

Starting with tennis-ball cricket, Nishad transitioned to leather-ball cricket after a friend's encouragement. Nishad's action caught the eye of his friend and that's where it began for the PBKS novish.

Nishad's tennis-ball roots honed his spin bowling. "As I was practicing with the tennis ball initially, I got used to making it spin. I adapted my tennis-ball skills to the leather ball, which played a major role in me becoming a bowler. "

As the IPL 2026 approaches, the youngster will be hoping to make a mark for his team. And if Virat Kohli's wicket comes along with it, it would capture the dream frame.