'If My Son Plays Any Sport, I'll Use Kohli's...'- Brian Lara Lauds Virat Kohli For His Dedication, Commitment

Former West Indies batter Brian Lara spoke highly of Indian batter Virat Kohli, commending his exceptional commitment and dedication to cricket. Brian Lara emphasized that he would use Virat Kohli’s qualities as an example if his own son were to pursue any sport.

Virat Kohli delivered an outstanding performance in the 2023 World Cup, amassing 765 runs from 11 matches. The right-handed batter also surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time ODI record, achieving his 50th century in the format during the recent ICC tournament.

This Is What Virat Kohli Has Given India – Brian Lara

During the Tiger Pataudi Memorial Lecture in Kolkata, Brian Lara praised Virat Kohli for his consistent performances for India throughout the World Cup, noting that some might downplay his achievements due to team results.

“I have a son and I can tell you that if my son has to play any sport, I will be using Kohli’s commitment and dedication to not just add to his strength, but whatever it takes to become a Number one sportsman,” Lara said.

“First of all, for Virat Kohli, I know a lot of people will say or have already said that Kohli’s performance does not matter as India did not win the World Cup. Team sport is about winning and you, as an individual player, have to have that as your No.1 target. But a subsidiary of team success is individual success, and this is what Kohli has given India match after match throughout the World Cup,” Lara added.

Virat Kohli Has Changed Face Of Cricket – Brian Lara

The former West Indies skipper acknowledged Virat Kohli’s significant impact on cricket, highlighting how he has revolutionized the approach to preparation and discipline in the sport.

“What impresses me most about Kohli is his true legacy, for he has changed the face of cricket and how you prepare for the game. The discipline that he has stands out, always,” Lara further stated.

The Delhi-born cricketer will be seen in action during the upcoming Test series in the South Africa tour. The 35-year-old will miss the white-ball leg of the tour in the Rainbow Nation, including three T20Is and as many ODIs.

Also read: “Selectors Should Do What They Feel Is Right” – Kapil Dev On Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli’s T20I Future