The 2025–26 Vijay Hazare Trophy has produced several standout moments, but one unexpected name has recently grabbed widespread attention — Gujarat spinner Vishal Jaiswal. The 27-year-old left-arm spinner found himself in the spotlight after dismissing Indian batting legend Virat Kohli and then receiving rare words of encouragement from the former India captain himself.

Jaiswal’s impressive performance came during an Elite Group D match against Delhi, played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. It was only his second appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, yet he delivered a spell that many bowlers only dream of. Not only did he claim the prized wicket of Kohli, but he also walked away with figures that underlined his control and confidence at the highest domestic level.

The Wicket That Changed Everything

Virat Kohli was in sublime touch during the match and looked set for a big score. Batting fluently, he reached 77 runs and appeared well on course for another century. However, Jaiswal halted the charge at a crucial moment, breaking through Delhi’s batting lineup and sending Kohli back to the pavilion before he could reach three figures.

Jaiswal’s impact did not end there. He later dismissed Delhi captain Rishabh Pant, who had scored a brisk 70, further strengthening Gujarat’s position in the match. The spinner finished with outstanding bowling figures of four wickets for 42 runs in his full quota of 10 overs, making it one of the most memorable spells of the tournament so far.

Following the match, Jaiswal’s name quickly began trending on social media, with fans and experts praising his composure and skill against some of India’s best batters.

A Special Conversation With Virat Kohli

What made the moment even more special for the Gujarat spinner was what happened after the match. Jaiswal revealed that he had the opportunity to speak with Virat Kohli and even took his autograph on the match ball — a keepsake he is likely to cherish for life.

In an interview with The Times of India, Jaiswal shared details of his conversation with Kohli. According to him, the Indian great offered words that carried immense value for a young domestic cricketer trying to establish himself.

“He told me that I bowl well and that I should keep working hard,” Jaiswal said. “He said that opportunities will come if I stay patient and continue putting in consistent effort.”

Jaiswal added that Kohli also spoke about handling pressure situations, maintaining fitness, and staying mentally calm on the field — lessons that only years of international experience can teach.

No Special Plan, Just Belief

Interestingly, Jaiswal admitted that he did not enter the match with a specific strategy to dismiss Kohli. Instead, he focused on executing his basics and trusting his abilities.

“He is a legend of the game,” Jaiswal said. “Bowling to someone like him is a big moment in itself. When he is at the crease, there is naturally a lot of pressure. I just tried to stay calm and bowl to my strengths.”

Reflecting on the wicket, he added that getting Kohli out was a moment of immense pride. For any bowler, having such a name on their wicket-taking list is a career-defining highlight.

Inspired by Axar Patel

Jaiswal’s journey in cricket has been shaped by strong mentorship as well. Hailing from Nadiad, he trained at the same academy where India all-rounder Axar Patel once honed his skills. Jaiswal credits Axar as both an inspiration and a mentor.

He revealed that Axar Patel has supported him in multiple ways, from providing cricket equipment to offering guidance on improving his game. Jaiswal considers Axar’s advice crucial to his development, especially the emphasis on discipline while batting and focusing on partnerships and wickets while bowling.

With nine wickets from 13 List A matches so far, Vishal Jaiswal’s domestic career is steadily progressing. Encouragement from a player like Virat Kohli could serve as a major confidence boost as he looks to make a deeper mark in Indian domestic cricket.

A Moment to Remember

The Vijay Hazare Trophy continues to serve as a platform where emerging players can test themselves against the best. For Vishal Jaiswal, dismissing Virat Kohli and receiving personal advice from him has turned one match into a defining chapter of his career — one that could shape his journey in the years to come.