Shoaib Akhtar, the former Pakistani fast bowler, recently showered praise on Virat Kohli for achieving the remarkable milestone of 50 ODI centuries. Speaking in the context of the modern era, Akhtar acknowledged Kohli as the premier batsman while expressing his desire to see him reach the century of centuries milestone.
Currently in the UAE for the second season of the International League T20, where he serves as a brand ambassador and commentator, Akhtar shared insights during an interview with ANI. He noted that if Virat Kohli had played during his era, he might have faced challenges, but he believes Kohli’s batting prowess would have enabled him to accumulate impressive runs even in the conditions of that time.
Reflecting on the past, Akhtar reminisced about the challenges faced by batsmen like Sachin Tendulkar during his playing days. He highlighted the use of a single ball for extended periods, leading to reverse-swing against some of the best batters globally. In that era, there was only one circle, the inner ring, creating a different dynamic in the game. Despite these challenges, Akhtar expressed confidence that even in such conditions, modern-day greats like Sachin Tendulkar would have excelled, mentioning other legends like Ricky Ponting and Brian Lara.
In our era, Virat would have remained competitive. Although he might have encountered challenges, there is confidence that he would have achieved the same impressive run tally he boasts today.
“We (bowlers) would have faced a similar beating, but playing Wasim Akram is not easy. Virat is Virat.He stands as the preeminent batsman of the contemporary era.Both eras cannot be compared. Hats off to him. I want him to get a hundred (international) centuries,” Akhtar added.
The comparison between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar has been a topic of discussion due to Virat’s consistent performances and the Indian team’s reliance on his batting. Kohli, in a total of 522 international matches, has amassed an impressive 26,733 runs at an average of 54.11. His record includes 80 centuries and 139 half-centuries in 580 innings, with the highest score being an unbeaten 254*. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the first player to score 50 ODI centuries.
Sachin Tendulkar, a cricketing legend with a prolific career spanning 664 international matches, accumulated 34,357 runs at an average of 48.52. Sachin notched up 100 centuries and 164 half-centuries, with his highest innings being an unbeaten 270*.
The discussion surrounding the eras prompted Akhtar to emphasize that both periods are unique and cannot be directly compared. He acknowledged the greatness of players like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Brian Lara in their time while reaffirming Virat Kohli’s status as the greatest batsman of the modern era.
As the conversation continues, it highlights the evolution of the game, changes in playing conditions, and the exceptional skills displayed by cricketers across different eras. Shoaib Akhtar’s admiration for Virat Kohli’s achievements underscores the global recognition of Kohli’s impact on contemporary cricket. The aspiration for Kohli to reach the elusive century of centuries adds another layer of excitement to the ongoing narrative of cricketing greatness.
Acknowledged as the paramount batsman of the present epoch, his consistent and stellar performances have set him apart in the cricketing landscape. His ability to navigate challenges and deliver outstanding run-scoring feats places him at the pinnacle of contemporary batting excellence. In a career spanning various formats, he has displayed remarkable skill, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
His impact transcends statistical achievements, resonating with fans and fellow players alike. Beyond the numbers, he embodies a rare combination of technical proficiency, mental fortitude, and an insatiable hunger for success. The cricketing world has witnessed his mastery in various conditions, against top-quality opposition, solidifying his reputation as a modern-day batting maestro.
As the cricketing narrative unfolds, his contributions continue to shape the game’s landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the legacy of this era’s batting greatness. In the eyes of many, he remains the quintessential batsman of his time, a standard-bearer for excellence, and a symbol of unwavering dedication to the craft.