When Virat Kohli gifted a car to his first coach

New Delhi - Rajkumar Sharma reveals the secret in a new book

While Virat Kohli has become cricket's biggest global star after Sachin Tendulkar, few people actually know about the man who played an invaluable role in helping him show his extraordinary talent on the world's biggest stages.

Rajkumar Sharma was Kohli's first coach and the Indian Test captain still hasn't forgotten the man who helped him take his first steps in cricket.

A strict disciplinarian, Sharma did become emotional during 2014 Teacher's Day by a gesture from his favourite student.

The book 'Driven', written by veteran sports journalist Vijay Lokapally, recalls one such incident.

The author wrote: "I answered the bell and found Vikas (Kohli's elder brother) at the door," said Rajkumar.

"His brother's arrival at his house so early in the day was cause for concern. Vikas stepped into the house, dialled a number and handed his cell phone to Rajkumar. 'Happy teacher's Day Sir,' said Virat, even as Vikas thrust something into Rajkumar's palms - a bunch of keys.

"Rajkumar stood perplexed as Vikas requested him to step out of his house. A gleaming Skoda Rapid was parked at the gate - a gift from Virat to his mentor."

"It was not merely because he had gifted me the car. It was because of his emotional touch to the process of reminding me how much he treasured our association, and valued the role of a teacher in his life."

• Sports