Justin Langer shockingly places Virat Kohli above Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara in cricket pantheon

As Day 2 of the thrilling Boxing Day Test between India and Australia unfolded at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli has yet again disappointed his fans by being dismissed in a similar fashion, falling prey to Scott Boland’s fourth stump line.

Despite Virat Kohli's cautious knock of 36 runs off 86 balls ending abruptly in the must-win match for India, former Australian head coach Justin Langer stunned the cricketing world with his extraordinary claim, as he named the right-hander as the greatest batter he has ever seen, overlooking the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Allan Border.

Justin Langer hails Virat Kohli as the greatest batter he’s ever seen

The Australian great has witnessed legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara, and Steve Waugh, but he still firmly believes Virat Kohli’s prowess on and off the field proves his claims are fair, as he pitted the former Indian skipper ahead of all these legends.

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What sets Kohli apart for Justin Langer is not just his technical brilliance—the elegant cover drives and fearless hooks—but his relentless determination, unmatched fitness, and commanding presence on the field. The former Australian coach has pointed out that Kohli’s focus and consistency have redefined modern cricket, inspiring millions worldwide.

I would have Virat batting for me: Justin Langer

Justin Langer also emphasized that Kohli's leadership, running between the wickets, and sheer ability to thrive under pressure make him unparalleled. Even during India's 2018 tour of Australia, Kohli’s performances against Australia left Langer in awe. Even then, Langer had hailed him as the finest player he had ever seen, and he has once again crowned Virat Kohli the GOAT.

Justin Langer said while commentating on Day 2 of the MCG Boxing Day Test at the MCG: “You asked me why I said yesterday that Virat Kohli is the best player that I have ever seen. There were a few raised eyebrows, but he actually is. We talk about Sachin… What a player.

It was one of the privileges of my life to play against Sachin Tendulkar and, of course, with 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 of them together, I would have Virat Kohli batting for me.”

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Justin Langer pays ultimate tribute to the Indian maestro

Explaining why he named Kohli as the best batter he has seen in his life, Langer noted, “The reason why I say that is not because of the expansive shots, his cover drives, or his hook shots. But you just saw the way he is watching the ball, his running between the wickets, his fielding, and his gladiatorial style of leadership. His elite fitness level, everything that he's brought to the table.”

The Aussie further said that Virat Kohli’s stats speak for themselves and the data proves why he is the best player he has ever seen. Langer signed off by saying the game has seen a lot of greats, but he feels Kohli is the one player, if he had to put his money on, the India batting icon would be the one.