Virat Kohli is proving his status as one of the all-time greats: Viv Richards

NEW DELHI: Legendary West Indies batter Sir Viv Richards has been left in awe of Virat Kohli’s performances in the 2023 World Cup, saying the talismanic India batter is proving his status as one of the all-time batting greats alongside Sachin Tendulkar.

“There have been a whole host of talented individuals on show but to top them all, you cannot look past Virat Kohli. I am a huge fan of Virat, I have been for a long time, and he continues to show why he has to go down as one of the all-time greats, right up there with the likes of the great Sachin. Virat will have been through some tough times before this World Cup and some folks were even brave enough to call for his head,” wrote Richards in his column for the ICC.

He also credited the Indian team support staff for supporting Kohli through his phase of having a lean run with the bat, while applauding the right-handed batter’s mental tenacity.

“Credit must be given to the backroom staff and everyone who backed him. So much was said about his form but he is back on top of his game. It is phenomenal to see an individual who has had his low points bouncing back and playing like this. They say form is temporary – and he has certainly proven that class is permanent.”

Talking about his comparisons with Virat, Richards said, “Many people have made comparisons between the two of us over the years, partly because of our shared intensity on the field. I love Virat’s enthusiasm – even if he is fielding at long-on or long-off when one of his bowlers hits the pad, he is appealing. He is always in the game and I like individuals like that.” IANS

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