Not Virat Kohli or Sachin Tendulkar!! Pat Cummins names the Indian player he admires the most

Australian captain Pat Cummins is currently in India for his Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments. Cummins is presently leading Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the ongoing IPL 2024, where the Orange Army is just a few inches away from securing a playoff spot.

Recently, Cummins named the Indian player whom he admires most when he was asked to choose between the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli on Star Sports. However, the SRH skipper’s choice wasn’t that unexpected, but fans are showering love on him.

Well, Tendulkar, Dhoni, and Kohli are three iconic figures in Indian cricket, and they left an indelible mark on the game with their remarkable achievements, unique playing styles, and unwavering passion for the game. They all have the honor to lead India at the highest level.

Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli - Who wins Pat Cummins' heart?

Speaking about Tendulkar, the batting maestro is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, and he earned immense respect for his elegant stroke play, longevity, and record-breaking international career spanning over two decades. His legacy is not just about his on-field exploits but also about his humility and sportsmanship.

Meanwhile, fan-favorite MS Dhoni is fondly known as "Captain Cool," and he is an Indian great whom Cummins admires the most. The SRH skipper on Star Sports admitted that he admires Dhoni and that he is one of the Indian greats whom he likes most. Cummins recently revealed on SportsNext that he has grown up watching “one of the all-time greats,” Tendulkar.

Question: Which Indian cricketer do you admire the most - Sachin/ Kohli/Dhoni. [Star Sports]

Pat Cummins said "MS Dhoni". pic.twitter.com/bb1qSRyp0q

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 9, 2024

However, Cummins told SportsNext: “Seeing a tall-leg spinner was a bit different than what we saw in Australia. So, he really likes Anil Kumble.”

Notably, Dhoni revolutionized Indian cricket with his astute leadership, sharp cricketing mind, and calm demeanor. Dhoni led India to numerous memorable wins, including the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011, and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013.

On the other hand, Virat Kohli is a modern-era legend, and the dashing right-hander has fascinated fans with his aggressive batting style, unparalleled consistency, and hunger for success and excellence.

Kohli is one of the most celebrated athletes globally, and his influence extends beyond the cricket field, inspiring millions with his fitness regimen and dedication to the game.

Pat Cummins' rise as Captain

Notably, Cummins has played against all three iconic Indian cricketers – Tendulkar, Dhoni, and Kohli. He is now one of the most lethal pacers that the game has seen, and for the past couple of years, the Aussie has emerged as one of the brightest prospects in terms of captaincy.

In such a short period, Cummins showed his mettle as the Australian skipper, winning the ODI World Cup 2023, the ICC World Test Championship, and the Ashes. He is now changing the fortunes of SRH in the ongoing IPL 2024 with his brilliant and aggressive leadership.