Shoaib Akhtar reveals what Virat Kohli did in Pakistan dressing room post loss in ICC Champions Trophy final
New Delhi: A good sportsman-spirit is always respected and always remembered. And that is what the former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar likes about Indian skipper Virat Kohli. In a recent interview, he revealed that Kohli had come up with a wonderful gesture towards Team Pakistan despite India's humiliating defeat in ICC Champions Trophy final.
In a battle between David and Goliath in London for the Champions Trophy final, it was David who had once again stunned the mighty one. India being a more formidable side were left dumbstruck when Pakistan snatched a massive 180-run win over the Men in Blue to lift their maiden Champions Trophy title. Not only so, it was also their first win over their arch-rivals in any ICC tournament.
It was a bitter humiliation for the Indian team, but despite all, Kohli maintained his composure and walked towards the Pakistani dressing room to congratulate the players on their ravishing victory. And that is what Akhtar liked about the Indian captain.
“Even in matches, we must always show respect. It's fine to lose a game. Hats off to Kohli who went to the Pakistan dressing room after the Champions Trophy final and congratulated our players. He spoke very highly of the Pakistan team. You know he is not only a great cricketer, he is a great ambassador for India as well," Akhtar told in an interview to Khaleej Times.
Not only so, he was much in praise of the Delhi Dasher who had notched up his 50th international century during the first test between India and Sri Lanka.
"Virat Kohli is a modern-day great. When it comes to run chases, no one has ever shown a better understanding of pacing an innings. Yes he has 50 international centuries now. I think he is the only player who can break Tendulkar's record. But there is no pressure on him. He should just go out there and enjoy the game. He should just look after himself.
"If Misbah-ul-Haq can play until 43, I am sure Virat can play until he is 44. If he plays that long and if he continues to score the way he is doing now, I have no doubt that he is the only one who can do it. In fact, he can hit 120 centuries," he added.
Adding to it, he also brushed aside the comparisons that people have been making between Kohli and Sachin.
"Comparing him to Sachin is not justified. Sachin was an all-time great. In today's era, Virat Kohli is the greatest batsman."