Virat Kohli Praised by former West Indian Cricketer Viv Richards

Former West Indian batsman, the great Viv Richards, has declared Virat Kohli as his favourite player.

In an interview with NDTV, Viv Richards says: “I am not going to get into a discussion on who is the best player in the world nowadays. I already have my favourite in Virat Kohli.”

He further added: “I like Virat’s style. I like his competitive nature and his willingness to try and achieve as much as he can at all times. To just basically push the envelope, in my opinion.”

In another interview, speaking to Hindustan Times, Richards says:

“I like Virat because of his confrontational style, and (the way he) defends his right if any nasty thing comes his way.  Plus when Virat gets going as a batsman, he is as good as any.”

Richards, who like Kohli was considered the best batsman of his side and his team, also captained the West Indies for fifty test matches. When asked by the Hindustan Times about whether he had any advice for Virat, he had this to say:

“There is going to be a time when you fail and that is when other members of your team can step up and come to the party. We have seen that.”

“Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul came to the party and that is why it’s such a great team sport. Your captain can fail and still be a strong leader.”

The similar aggressive styles between Richard and Kohli have led to comparisons between them. Responding to those comparisons, Richards says: “I feel quite privileged that you would equate me, a blast from the past, with these modern day players.”

Receiving such compliments by a legend such as Viv Richards is sure to provide a boost in confidence.

With his form having slipped a little during the recent series against Australia, such a boost could well be needed.