New Zealand fast bowler
Having spent significant time alongside Kohli in the IPL, Duffy expressed admiration for the former India captain’s professional approach and welcoming nature toward overseas players. Despite Kohli’s status as a major sporting figure in India, Duffy noted that he remained grounded and approachable throughout their time together at the franchise.
From Net Sessions to International Competition
The familiarity between the two players extends beyond the dressing room, as they frequently crossed paths during training. Duffy revealed that their shared routine during RCB practice sessions involved extensive one-on-one work, providing both players with a clear understanding of each other's technical approach.
Duffy recalled that their training habits often aligned, noting that Kohli was consistently the first batter in the nets while he was frequently the first bowler. This regular interaction allowed them to study each other's game closely, a factor that Duffy believes will make the upcoming international contest particularly intriguing. While he appreciates the insight he gained into Kohli’s methods, he acknowledged that the Indian star has also had ample opportunity to observe his own bowling style.
Building Toward the 2027 World Cup
The upcoming ODI series serves as a significant platform for Duffy as he aims to solidify his position in the New Zealand setup. Coming off a strong performance in the fourth T20I, where he claimed four wickets in an 87-run victory, the pacer is eager to transition his focus to the 50-over format. He noted that he enjoys the tactical variety ODI cricket provides, particularly the balance between bowling with a swinging ball early on and managing the final stages of the innings.
Looking further ahead, Duffy identified the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa as a primary career objective. Having grown up watching the 2015 and 2019 editions, he views the tournament as the pinnacle of the sport. With the event approaching, he views the upcoming matches against India as vital opportunities to demonstrate his value and push for a permanent place in the national squad for the global tournament.
