As Day 2 of the thrilling Boxing Day Test between India and Australia got underway at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli once again disappointed his fans by being dismissed in a similar fashion, falling prey to the Scott Boland's four stump lines.
Despite Virat Kohli's cautious knock of 36 from 86 balls ending abruptly in the must-win match for India, former Australian head coach Justin Langer stunned the cricketing world with his extraordinary statement while at rightly called the best hitter he has. ever seen, with a view to the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Allan Border.
Justin Langer hails Virat Kohli as the biggest bully he has ever seen
The Australian great has witnessed legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara and Steve Waugh but still firmly believes that Virat Kohli's prowess on and off the field proves his claims right as he put the former Indian captain before all of them. legends.
What sets Kohli apart for Justin Langer is not just his technical brilliance – elegant covers and fearless hooks – but his relentless determination, unmatched fitness and commanding presence on the field. The former Australian coach pointed out that Kohli's focus and consistency redefined modern cricket, inspiring millions around the world.
I would have Virat bat for me: Justin Langer
Justin Langer also pointed out that Kohli's leadership, running between the wickets and sheer ability to thrive under pressure make him unmatched. Even during India's tour of Australia in 2018, Kohli's performances against Australia amazed Langer. Even then, Langer hailed him as the best player he had ever seen and crowned Virat Kohli the GOAT once again.
Justin Langer said while commentating on Day 2 of the MCG Boxing Day Test at the MCG: “You asked me yesterday why I said Virat Kohli is the best player I have ever seen. There were a few raised eyebrows, but actually it is. Talking about Sachin… What a player.
It was one of the privileges of my life to play against Sachin Tendulkar and of course Ricky Ponting and Brian Lara. If I had my last rupee or my last dollar, I would pay to watch Brian Lara bat, but if I had my life and my last dollar and both together, I would have Virat Kohli bat for me.”
Justin Langer pays the ultimate tribute to the Indian master
Explaining why he called Kohli the best batsman he has seen in his life, Langer remarked, “The reason I say that is not because of his expansive shots, his cover shots or his hook shots. But you just saw the way he follows the ball, his running between the goals, his play and his gladiator driving style. His elite level of fitness, everything he brought to the table.”
The Aussie also said that Virat Kohli's stats speak for themselves and the data proves why he is the best player he has ever seen. Langer concluded by saying the game has seen a lot of great things, but he believes Kohli is the one player if he had to put his money on, the Indian batting icon would be the one.