Finished 100 games in purest format despite playing 3 formats: Kohli
Basking in the glory of becoming only the 12th Indian cricketer to play 100 Tests, Virat Kohli said on Friday that he wants the “next generation” to take inspiration from the fact that he could achieve the milestone, despite playing in all three formats through a gruelling international schedule.
The star Indian batter was felicitated by the BCCI on Friday, commemorating his landmark 100th Test match in Mohali.
“In present-day cricket, with the amount we play with three formats and an IPL, the one takeaway the next generation can take from me is that I played 100 games in the purest format,” Kohli said, after being felicitated by Rahul Dravid, ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.
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Due to bio-bubble restrictions, it was Dravid, who presented Kohli with a commemorative cap and also a glittering memento.
Kohli had his actor wife Anushka Sharma for company and his brother Vikas Kohli was in the stands.
From the BCCI, president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah, treasurer Arun Dhumal and vice-president Rajiv Shukla were in attendance.
Coach Dravid gave a warm speech, waxing eloquent about his longevity and asked him to “double it up”.
“It is a special moment for me. My wife is here and so is my brother. Everyone is very proud. It is indeed a team game and it couldn’t have been possible without you. Thanks to the BCCI as well,” Kohli said.
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Kohli joined an illustrious list comprising Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma, who have played 100 Test matches for the country.
(With inputs from Agencies)
