Gautam Gambhir praises Virat Kohli’s ‘best ODI innings ever’ in candid message

PTC News Desk: Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir and star batter Virat Kohli shared an insightful and candid conversation, discussing their cricketing journeys and reflecting on past rivalries. In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on its official website, the two cricketing legends reminisced about iconic moments on the field, teasing each other over some playful encounters.

During the conversation, Gambhir expressed his deep admiration for Kohli’s contributions to Indian cricket, particularly in the Test format. He praised Kohli’s leadership in building a strong fast-bowling unit and acknowledged the pressure Kohli faced after taking over the Test captaincy from MS Dhoni at a young age.

“You were only 24-25 when you took on the responsibility of Test captaincy, and the credit goes to you for how you shaped the team during that time. Your winning attitude, especially in overseas Tests, deserves recognition,” Gambhir told Kohli, reflecting on Kohli’s impact on India’s Test success.

Gambhir also singled out Kohli’s 183-run innings against Pakistan during the Asia Cup as the greatest ODI performance by an Indian. “Your 183 against Pakistan, while chasing over 300, is the best ODI innings I’ve seen,” Gambhir said, commending Kohli’s match-winning knock.

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In addition to his ODI praise, Gambhir highlighted Kohli’s achievements in Test cricket, saying, “What you did brilliantly was to build a strong bowling unit in Test cricket. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets, and you deserve the credit for being the most successful Test captain in India, especially with your winning attitude overseas.”

The conversation also touched on their personal experiences of being in the ‘zone’ during crucial performances. Gambhir recalled Kohli’s stellar series in Australia, where Kohli amassed runs and reached a focused state that helped him dominate. Gambhir drew parallels to his own marathon innings of 137 off 436 deliveries against New Zealand in Napier, admitting he had never experienced such concentration again.

Reflecting on that innings, Gambhir said, “If I look back, could I bat for another two and a half days like that? I don’t think so. I’ve never been in that zone again after Napier. So I can imagine how great it feels to be in that zone, and I’m sure you’ve experienced it many more times than I have.”

The conversation revealed the mutual respect and admiration between the two cricketing stalwarts, shedding light on the dedication and mental toughness needed to perform at the highest level of the game.

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