Sourav Ganguly: The world of cricket is no stranger to debates and controversies, and the most recent one involves three stalwarts of the game – Sourav Ganguly, Shoaib Akhtar, and Virat Kohli. While discussions around players’ form, fitness, and their longevity in the sport are common, the recent commentary from former Pakistani speedster Shoaib Akhtar regarding Virat Kohli has reignited debates across borders.
Virat Kohli: At the Pinnacle of His Game
Virat Kohli, hailed as one of the modern greats, recently represented Team India in the ODI World Cup and the Asia Cup. He continues to be a mainstay in India’s cricketing lineup, proving time and again his value as both a player and a leader. However, Shoaib Akhtar, in the past, hasn’t shied away from offering unsolicited advice to Kohli, suggesting more than once that the Indian batsman should contemplate retirement.
Ganguly’s Stance on Akhtar’s Suggestions
When the former Indian captain and current BCCI president, Sourav Ganguly, was posed with the question of Akhtar’s remarks, he was forthright. Emphasizing the importance of a player’s personal choice in continuing their career, Ganguly said, “Virat Kohli should play as long as he wants to. Whenever he performs, no one raises such questions. Virat has the liberty to play in any format he desires.” Ganguly’s assertion stems from a place of confidence in Kohli’s abilities, suggesting that the batsman still has a lot to offer to the sport.
Kohli’s Illustrious Career
Backing up Ganguly’s confidence is Kohli’s staggering track record. Celebrating 15 years in international cricket, Kohli’s career is one that aspiring cricketers look up to. With a whopping 76 centuries in international cricket, he is second only to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. This statistic alone speaks volumes about his consistency and determination.
The Race to 13,000 ODI Runs
Diving deep into his ODI statistics, Kohli’s credentials further solidify his position in the cricketing world. In 265 ODI innings, the right-handed batsman has amassed 12,898 runs, averaging an impressive 57.32. With a mere 102 runs standing between him and the 13,000-run landmark, it’s only a matter of time before he reaches this milestone. Moreover, with 46 ODI centuries to his name, Kohli’s prowess in the 50-over format remains unparalleled.
while opinions from cricketing greats like Shoaib Akhtar might make for interesting debates, the numbers and records lay testament to Virat Kohli’s monumental career. As Ganguly rightly said, the decision to continue playing lies solely with Kohli, and as fans and spectators, our role is to celebrate and support his journey, wherever it may lead.
Summary
– Virat Kohli, the player from Team India, will participate in the ODI World Cup and Asia Cup this year
– Former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has given advice to Kohli about retirement multiple times
– Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly has responded to Shoaib Akhtar’s comments
– Ganguly stated that there are several options in the Indian team for the number four batting position
– Ganguly has shown support for young player Tilak Verma
– Ganguly has a different perspective on the number four position and believes there are many talented batsmen in the team
– He has mentioned the inclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal in the team
– Ganguly advised Kohli to continue playing as long as he wants, as his performance speaks for itself
– Kohli recently completed 15 years in his cricket career and is currently second after Sachin Tendulkar in international cricket with 76 centuries.
