Virat Kohli Reveals How he Built His Body Into an Efficient, Tireless Machine

He may have his fair share of critics - those who judge him by his temper and temperament. For Virat Kohli though, confidence can often be misunderstood for arrogance but the Indian cricketer could hardly care any lesser. After all, his confidence has come from being devoted to the game and working incredibly hard to reach to the very top.

In an interview to ESPNcricinfo, Kohli gave an insight into what it took for him to excel in at his game and become one of the most successful - and fascinating - sportsperson in contemporary cricket.

"I would not say I was always a maniac in working hard," Kohli admitted. "My decision to change things was based on the fact that I was wondering at the time: why are other teams doing really well in international cricket and why are we not being able to get there? That is because they were getting fitter than us, they were training better, they were eating better, and they could concentrate for longer periods. They were following a set routine and discipline which would help their game and would give them confidence mentally." (Also read: Virat Kohli wants to build a world-beating Indian side)

Kohli says he dramatically changed his lifestyle after the 2012 edition of Indian Premier League - in a bid to improve his game. (Also read: Here's why McGrath feels Kohli can justify his temper)

"I made a conscious effort that I am going to eat right. I am going to train right. I lost about 11kg in about eight months post the IPL that year," said India's new Test captain. "The machine was getting built, but these small nuts and bolts were missing. It was a totally amazing experience when I was doing my routine."

Kohli further said that he is a staunch believer in Sachin Tendulkar's recipe for success - knowing yourself and believing in yourself. The 26-year-old considers Tendulkar as his idol and said going forward, he would love to build a strong Team India based on what he has learnt from the legend.