Sir Viv Richards sees a bit of himself in Virat Kohli but the Indian batsman feels comparisons with the legend are surreal as he can’t even think of emulating the West Indian’s audacity of smacking the world’s greatest fast bowlers without protective gear.
Kohli has become the fastest to notch up 7000 runs 25 hundreds in the ODI format. The feats have led to comparisons with Richards, one among the very few batsmen who dominated on the Australian soil.
“I don’t go to the field thinking I want to fight with someone today. I am in a good headspace where I am contributing to the team. And it is not an argument on the field. It’s been different this time than last time, rather than swearing or bad words, it is just fun. People watching should have some fun as well. My focus is to go out there and perform, as these things don’t bother me,” said Kohli ahead of the fifth and final one-dayer against India here tomorrow.
“And it is surreal to think of comparisons. I have always thought that it was tougher for the greats of the game because we have better protective gear today. I can’t think of playing in a cap and Sir Viv always did. He smacked fast bowlers for sixes all over the world and even thinking about it sends chills down your spine,” he added.
Richards had stated some time back that Kohli’s batting reminds him of himself for the sheer aggression and passion he puts into his effort.
The 27-year-old said he still considers himself a club cricketer.
“I still think of myself as a club cricketer who wants to do well in every game. That’s the mindset I had when I hadn’t played state cricket for Delhi yet. I just wanted to go and win every match for my academy team and score as many runs as possible. That was what I was taught by my coach and something that I have been lucky to be able to remember.
“Statistics will take care of themselves on the sidelines. I just feel grateful that I am in that position and that I remember what got me into that position,” said Kohli.