- Make no mistake, cricket enthusiasts all over the world would have enjoyed the jaw-dropping exploits of Virat Kohli during the last eleven years or so. Scores of people closely following the star batter would have noticed his penchant for scoring big and consistently at that. Right from the time of his debut, Kohli was identified to make it big on the international platform and he has not been disappointed one bit on this front. As they say, statistics speaks for itself, the mind-boggling international runs scored over the years stand testimony to the longevity, consistency, tenacity, and impassioned urge to keep excelling amid varied challenges.
PC: R Sai
- His record in white-ball cricket, especially 50-over one-day internationals is exceptional and awe-inspiring as well. Not that Virat has any lesser credentials vis-à-vis the purest and the longest format of the game, the Test match cricket. The first Test of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka will mark Kohli’s 100th appearance which is not only a remarkable achievement in itself but also showcases how much importance he accords to the original format of the game. We all know that the advent of slam-bang T20 cricket has taken the sheen off the Test matches in recent times. It’s struggling to stay relevant in the overall scheme of things is stating the obvious.
- Except for purists of the game, the Test match cricket has consistently failed to attract crowds making it highly untenable for the organizers to generate precious revenue to sustain in the absence of willing sponsors. Of course, there are exceptions like India, Australia, England, and New Zealand which still attract sizeable crowds during Test matches. Inarguably, Virat Kohli the batter has had a huge impact on the way Test matches are still staying relevant even as the shortest format has usurped the interests of the patrons in a big way. No wonder, his passionate push for the longer format is well documented and appreciated by the legends of the game.
PC: Sidharth Monga
- The brand Virat Kohli is counted amongst the very best in the business and his fervent exhortations to position Test match cricket as the numero uno format indeed has helped in ensuring it stays pertinent amid the T20 onslaught. Due credit to him. Admirably, Virat joins a select band of legendary Indian cricketers as the 12th inline having represented the country in 100 and more Tests. So, what sets Kohli apart from his contemporaries in relentlessly pursuing excellence. Never say die approach, extreme fitness regimen, sacrifices galore in pursuit of higher goals, burning ambition to break ceilings, stronger urge to be counted as the best amongst the peers, and insatiable hunger to keep pushing the limits has already established Kohli as one of the modern-day legends.
- Even though he has not been at his consistent best of late, there is no denying the fact that Kohli is still left with enough gas in the tank to elevate his game to an altogether different level in the coming days. Mind you, it only bodes well for Indian cricket as a rampaging Virat Kohli is not only a delight for the true connoisseurs of the game but also will serve Team India’s interests too which is looking at a transition sooner than later. Well done Virat Kohli, proud of you!
