Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli surprised fans recently by unveiling a dramatic new mullet hairstyle. Kohli’s new edgy look has gone viral across social media, sparking buzz and speculation ahead of the Asia Cup tournament.
With his flowing locks, Kohli is making a bold fashion statement that matches his aggressive batting style. This article will explore the details behind Kohli’s new style, fan reactions to his transformed appearance, and what it might signify about the champion cricketer.
Why Has Kohli Opted For Such A Dramatic Change?
Kohli has crafted a reputation over the years for his ever-evolving hairstyles and fashion choices. However, this new short-sides, long-back mullet cut represents one of his most radical transformations yet.
Cricket pundits speculate several reasons why Kohli may have chosen to go for such a statement look at this particular career juncture:
- Signalling his return to form after a relatively quiet period
- Matching his enigmatic, outspoken personality
- Experimenting with expressive personal style choices
- Projecting a bold, intimidating image before major tournaments
- Inspiring memes and viral chatter among fans
Regardless of his motivations, Kohli’s mullet shows he is willing to take risks and continue reinventing his signature style.
How Are Fans Reacting To Kohli’s Mullet Hairstyle On Social Media?
Unsurprisingly, Kohli’s extreme new hairstyle has ignited fiery debate and meme creation across social platforms.
Reactions range from:
- Praise for his bold sense of fashion
- Comparisons to iconic mullet-wearing athletes like David Beckham
- Lighthearted jokes about everything from Kohli’s new hair volume to his revamped ‘dad fashion’ status
- Critiques that the look does not match Kohli’s personality or enhance his appearance
- Speculation that he is trying too hard to seem edgy and youthful
Fan edits featuring Kohli’s hairstyle mashed up with pop culture characters or events have also gone viral. However, the divided opinions reflect the passion Kohli inspires as a national star capable of pulling off just about any look.
Who Is Behind Kohli’s Mullet Transformation?
Kohli’s new style was created by celebrity hairstylist Vuroon Suraman-Maharaj. Often known as ‘the god of cricket hair’, Maharaj has worked with other top Indian cricketers including Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill.
Maharaj shared a social media ‘reveal’ video of Kohli’s mullet makeover in progress at his salon. The stylist set out to craft an edgy, stand-out look befitting Kohli’s bold attitude.
Given Maharaj’s reputation as a trendsetter in cricket style, he may have more influence over Kohli’s experimental hairstyles than the public realises. Their collaboration on the mullet could spark new trends.
How Drastically Does The Mullet Change Kohli’s Look?
While still adaptable, Kohli’s hairstyles have trended shorter on the sides and longer on top in recent years. However, the mullet takes things to the extreme with:
- Very short, faded sides and back contrasting with chin-length locks in the rear
- Much more volume and flow than his past styles
- Temples and neck buzzed close for a sharpened outline
- Texture added on top for movement and bend in the longer layers
- The sides stay neatly cropped behind the ear and taper gradually
It gives Kohli a retro-hipster vibe that is edgier than his familiar cropped cuts fans are accustomed to.
How Does The Mullet Suit Kohli’s Facial Features?
Many fans are still deciding whether Kohli’s facial attributes are enhanced by the edgy, dramatic mullet length. His features that could boost the look include:
- Strong jawline and chin that balance out the volume on top
- Intense eyes that pop more thanks to the short sides
- Thick, dark hair showcasing texture and movement
- Prominent eyebrows framing his face
However, critics argue the long locks minimise his athletic physique and youthful energy. Overall, Kohli likely intends the mullet to accentuate his boldness.
Will Kohli’s Hairstyle Start New Trends?
As one of cricket’s foremost style icons, Kohli has the influence to kick off new trends anytime he debuts a new look. If he dominates upcoming matches while rocking the mullet, fans may start requesting similar hairstyles.
Youth cricket players also look to leading stars for fashion inspiration. Kohli could potentially inspire more experimental cuts on the pitch.
However, the mullet itself may be too avant-garde for mainstream adoption. More likely, Kohli will spur trends involving:
- Exaggerated length contrasts like faux-hawks
- Shorter sides and longer hair on top
- Bold retro inspirations like disco cuts
- More texture and flow added to medium styles
If Kohli backs up his edgy style with sterling performances, he will remain cricket’s most watchable personality.
Will Kohli Have To Modify His Hairstyle For Matches?
While allowed personal expression, cricketers do have to abide by certain rules dictating acceptable hairstyles on the pitch. Extreme length or volume cannot interfere with performance.
Kohli’s mullet pushes the boundaries, so he may have to modify it slightly for matches by:
- Pulling the longest layers into a bun or ponytail
- Adding braids, twists, or headband to control the locks
- Slightly trimming the length if it impedes vision
- Smoothing products to minimize frizz and movement
Nonetheless, Kohli will likely retain the shorter sides and prominent length difference that defines the mullet shape.
How Long Will Kohli Stick With The New Hair Style?
Opinions differ on whether Kohli’s mullet is a short-lived experiment or signature look in the making. Factors include:
- His willingness to commit to a style long-term
- Reaction of sponsors, officials, and partners
- How it affects his performance and focus
- Public opinion shifting more positive or negative
- Desire for change after making his point
Typically, Kohli cycles through 4-5 signature styles per competitive season. But based on his other high-drama cuts, he could potentially sport the mullet for a good portion of the coming tournaments.
Is Kohli’s Mullet A Refreshing Change Or Cry For Attention?
Kohli’s supporters see his mall-hair statement as bold, artistic expression befitting his sole personality. However, critics argue:
- He is moving toward gimmicky overkill with his style
- The jarring look does not match his luxury brand partnerships
- It reflects desperation for superstar status as his skills decline
- He should avoid distractions and focus only on his cricket
But Kohli has built his stardom around talent, intensity, and leveraging his celebrity to connect with fans. Ultimately the mullet shows his willingness to take himself less seriously while maintaining laser competitiveness.
Does The Mullet Really Matter Beyond Gossip Fodder?
While Kohli’s new hairstyle makes for entertaining social media fodder, many argue it is irrelevant to his actual cricket skills and performance. With the Asia Cup fast approaching, the only aspect that really matters is Kohli’s readiness to contribute on the pitch.
No matter how fans feel about his appearance, Kohli’s priority will be excelling against top opponents after an underwhelming year. If he delivers standout performances that help India succeed, the mullet will simply become part of his persona.
By generating viral hype, the mullet style did its job of stoking anticipation for Kohli’s return to cricket’s main stage. But only his batting record and on-field impact will determine if he silences critics in the Asia Cup and beyond.
The Final Takeaway on Kohli’s Dramatic Mullet
Virat Kohli yet again proved why he is cricket’s most intriguing personality with the unveiling of his edgy new mullet hairstyle. While fan reactions remain divided, Kohli succeeds in commanding attention and creating an aura of renewed excitement leading into high-stakes tournaments.
If he can back up the bold look with consistent scoring contributions, Kohli may cement the mullet as his signature style for this era of his illustrious career. But critics will only be silenced by sustained excellence with the bat, regardless of his latest hairstyle spectacle.
Either way, Kohli remains devoted to evolving his personal brand and connecting with fans through his sense of style. The mullet shows his willingness to experiment with daring looks, even at the risk of criticism. Kohli follows his own path to keep cultivating his superstar aura in pursuit of legendary status in cricket’s pantheon.
