Published: May 19, 2016, 05:17 PM (IST)
Edited: May 19, 2016, 05:17 PM (IST)
After praises galore from all around the globe, Australia great Micheal Hussey feels Virat Kohli’s recent feat has exceeded India’s legend Sachin Tendulkar. He also believes Kohli could very well go past Tendulkar before he ends his career. Although, he is concerned about the stamina Tendulkar possessed and if Kohli could reach that level. In the recent game against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), Kohli has once again created history with his 4th T20 century. It was due to his heroics that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) who were at the bottom of the Points Table on IPL 9 have moved up the ladder to keep their hopes alive in IPL 9. With this century, he has gone past his team mate Suresh Raina, who was at the top with maximum runs in IPL. He is just a step away from Gayle’s record in IPL with five centuries. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli deservingly crowned as IPL’s highest-run getter
While speaking to cricket.com.au, Hussey said who is presently doing commentary for IPL in India, “One of Tendulkar’s greatest strengths was his longevity and if Kohli can stay fit, he could be well on his way to emulate Tendulkar as a player.” Apart from the above records he now also has 2,042 runs at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, becoming the first batsman to do so at a single venue in T20s. Hussey further added, “He has evolved into an amazing player.” He also feels that he can be matched to the level of Steven Smith and AB de Villiers. On speaking about these three batsmen, Hussey mentioned, “These three are all probably at a stage now where they know their game inside and out and they stick to it as it has given them so much success over the years.I simply love watching them bat.” ALSO READ: IPL 2016: Virat Kohli surpasses Suresh Raina as highest run-scorer in IPL
One of the most interesting part in Indian cricket in the next few years will be when Kohli surpasses Tendulkar with ODI records. Tendulkar’s 24-years dominance has seen him building various statistics over the years with much ease. But it is not unknown people are waiting for Kohli take over the records of Sachin. Kohli currently sits fourth in list of ODI century-makers along with Kumar Sangakkara, Sanath Jayasuriya and Ricky Ponting, which are very much within his reach.
When Kohli was asked about his comparison with Sachin, he said, “It is embarrassing to be honest. It is not fair on him (Tendulkar). He can’t be compared to anyone. You are talking about a batsman of a different calibre. I have strengthened my game whereas he was born to achieve all that he has. I have been playing well for two years while he served the nation with grace for 24 years. He is two levels above anyone else in this generation of batsmen. I am individually inspired by him though I would like to create my own path.”
