Bangar stated that Kohli’s fiery demeanor mirrors his true personality, reminiscent of the intensity and defiance of Bachchan’s 1970s “angry young man” era.
Sanjay Bangar Compares Virat Kohli’s On-Field Fire to Amitabh Bachchan’s “Angry Young Man”
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar drew a striking parallel between Virat Kohli’s fiery on-field persona and Amitabh Bachchan’s legendary “angry young man” roles that defined Bollywood in the 1970s. Kohli, known for his aggressive attitude, never hesitated to confront opponents, constantly keeping pressure on them. During his captaincy, India adopted an assertive approach in Test cricket, achieving a historic series win in Australia, challenging strongly in England and South Africa, and instilling the belief that the team could succeed anywhere in the world.
Bangar explained that Kohli’s intensity wasn’t just a show, but a true reflection of his personality, reminiscent of the defiance that defined Bachchan’s iconic roles.
“Virat Kohli has a natural character, like brash, in your face, and that was his natural character. A natural character always feels right. Why did Amitabh Bachchan’s films work in the 1975-1980 era? It was because there was this thought of an angry young man, and in the Indian society, anger was somewhere simmering,” Bangar said on DD Sports.
“Virat Kohli had to take cricket forward after Fab 4 retired”
Former India coach Sanjay Bangar believes Virat Kohli’s aggressive approach arrived at a crucial juncture for Indian cricket. With the “Fab Four” — Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and Sourav Ganguly — retired, the team faced a leadership and identity gap. Bangar emphasised that Indian cricket needed a fresh voice to usher in a new era of intensity and competitiveness.
Earlier this year, Kohli retired from Test cricket after playing 123 matches in his 14-year red-ball career. Making his Test debut in 2011 against West Indies, he became India’s standout batter after Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement in 2013.
Kohli finished his Test career with 9,230 runs, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, at an average of 46.85. He also captained India in 68 Tests, becoming the nation’s most successful Test captain with 40 wins.