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In a heartfelt admission during the post-match interview following the on-field encounter between India and South Africa at the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, India’s No. 3 batter Virat Kohli opened up about the enduring comparisons to his childhood inspiration and legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s candid remarks shed light on the immense respect and admiration he holds for Tendulkar, despite the constant parallels drawn between their cricketing careers.
Sachin Tendulkar praises Virat Kohli
On Sunday, Kohli achieved a remarkable feat by scoring his 49th ODI century, thereby matching the illustrious record set by Tendulkar. Notably, this significant milestone was reached by Kohli on his 35th birthday at Kolkata’s renowned Eden Gardens. The Delhi-lad’s exceptional knock, which included 10 fours, resulted in him attaining the 110-run mark in 119 balls.
Coincidentally, the iconic Eden Gardens had witnessed Kohli’s maiden ODI century back in 2009 during a gripping encounter against Sri Lanka. It is worth mentioning that Kohli accomplished the feat of scoring 49 ODI hundreds in 277 innings, surpassing Tendulkar’s record of 438 innings to achieve the same number of centuries in the format.
Following Kohli’s colossal feat, Tendulkar took to Twitter to praise Kohli as he wrote: “Well played Virat. It took me 365 days to go from 49 to 50 earlier this year. I hope you go from 49 to 50 and break my record in the next few days. Congratulations!!”
Well played Virat.
It took me 365 days to go from 49 to 50 earlier this year. I hope you go from 49 to 50 and break my record in the next few days.
Congratulations!!— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt)
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‘A huge honour for me’: Virat Kohli
After India’s comprehensive win over South Africa, Kohli stated that it’s an honour for him to receive praise from Tendulkar, and added that he’ll never be as good as his “hero.”
“It is quite special to me. It is all too much to take in right now. To equal my hero’s record in ODIs is a huge honour for me. I know people like comparisons but I’m never going to be as good as him. There is a reason why everyone of us look up to him, he is a perfection when it comes to batting,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.
“I am trying to do my best, trying to win games for my country. He is always going to be my hero regardless of what happens. It is a very emotional moment for me. I know where I come from, I know the days I have watched him play on TV. So, to stand here and get this appreciation from someone like him, it means a lot to me,” the former Indian captain added further.
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As the ODI World Cup progresses, fans and cricket enthusiasts continue to witness Kohli’s unwavering commitment to the sport, with his actions and words reflecting his steadfast dedication and passion for the game. Amidst the intense tournament atmosphere, Kohli’s heartfelt tribute to his idol serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that cricket legends leave on the hearts and minds of those they inspire.
