Virat Kohli. (Source – Getty Images)
During his playing days, Shahid Afridi was one of India’s most formidable on-field adversaries. Recently, however, he has articulated several commendatory remarks about various facets of Indian cricket. He was among the first to extend congratulations via social media to former T20I skipper, Rohit Sharma, & Co. for their second T20 World Cup victory around a fortnight ago. Additionally, Afridi praised the newly-appointed head coach of India, Gautam Gambhir, for his pragmatic and forthright approach. Now, the former Pakistani captain has once again expressed admiration for an Indian cricketer, this time for the iconic Virat Kohli.
Afridi remarked that even in Pakistan, the vehemence for the Indian legend is extraordinarily intense. He made a striking assertion that if Kohli were ever to visit Pakistan and witness the magnitude of admiration and affection for him, he would forget the love from India. Afridi also expressed that Kohli was his favorite player, noting his unique and eloquent style.
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“Virat ko jo pyaar India mein mila hai, mere khyaal se voh pyaar bhool jaayega. Pakistan mein bohot craze hai, usko bohot pasand karte hai. Even mera favourite player hai voh. Virat ki apni ek class hai. (the love Virat has received in India, I think he will forget it when he visits Pakistan because there’s lot of craze among the fans for him out here. He’s my favourite cricketer too. He has his own class),” stated Afridi to News 24.
What Virat could have taught them, nobody else can: Afridi on Kohli
Reflecting on his retirement, the former all-rounder, echoing the sentiments of Kohli fans worldwide, opined that Kohli should have continued playing the 20-over format, as his batting was a delight to behold. Praising Kohli’s fitness and performance levels and dedication to training, Afridi emphasized that Kohli’s presence would have greatly benefited the younger players in every aspect, whether physical, mental, or otherwise.
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“He should have continued playing T20Is since he makes it look beautiful. He’s fit, in form, and keeps on training. His presence would have benefitted the new players in the team. You cannot blood in so many youngsters at the same time. There should be a combination of senior and junior players. What Virat could have taught them, nobody else can,” added Afridi.
Notably, shortly after the final in Barbados, while on the podium receiving the Player of the Match award for his remarkable 76 off 59, Kohli spontaneously announced his decision to retire from T20Is.