Aakash Chopra thinks Virat Kohli has greatly influenced cricket. His game-changing actions and high fitness rank are key reasons.
Virat Kohli has racked up 26733 runs in 522 international matches, boasting an impressive average of 54.11. When it comes to games where India triumphed, his performance jumped. He delivered a startling 17419 runs throughout 313 games, with an extraordinary average of 66.23.
Chopra discussed Kohli’s defining characteristics in a video on his YouTube channel. He spoke about the notable effects the contemporary batting expert has had on the game. He explained:
“If you have to judge a player’s greatness, there are three or four parameters. One in longevity. He is 35 and it seems like he can play for four more years. Then you see his impact on the game. He wins matches and makes an entire generation fit. He has had a massive impact.”
Aakash Chopra
The former India opener continued, stating that the accomplishments of another Delhiite speak for themselves:
“Another important aspect is how you adapt across three formats – he does that. Then, of course, the sheer records, the numbers. The numbers don’t lie about him – 50 ODI centuries, four double centuries in a year in Tests, nearly 1000 runs in an IPL season.”
Aakash Chopra
Chopra said that almost all other batting records belong to Virat Kohli, notwithstanding his opinion that he might not be able to match Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international hundreds. He went on to say that the 35-year-old performs best on pitches that are a little difficult and against good opposition, citing his achievements in South Africa, Australia, and even England during the 2014 trip.
“The one thing that defines him is the chase game” – Aakash Chopra on Virat Kohli
According to Aakash Chopra, Virat Kohli stands out because of his ability to organize run chases. He said:
“The one thing that defines him is the chase game. He is the modern master and the chase master. I feel the name ‘chase master’ was coined in the match against Sri Lanka in Hobart where India needed a bonus point to qualify. How well he hit Lasith Malinga and all the other bowlers.”
Aakash Chopra
The former cricket player and current analyst mentioned that one more instance of Virat Kohli’s ability to chase the ball was his game-winning hit in the 2022 T20 World Cup group encounter against Pakistan. He noted:
“There were other seniors in the team as well but the way Virat Kohli played made you realize that this guy is special and different. After that, he has been unstoppable in chases. You will remember the unbeaten 82-run knock against Pakistan.”
Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra believes that the ex-India leader possesses laser-like concentration and quick figuring abilities when he has a goal. In one-day and T20I chase games, Virat Kohli’s average scores are 65.49 and 71.85 each.
