'Watching you play has been inspiration but...': Riyan Parag's message for Virat Kohli on his birthday

Riyan Parag has penned down a heartfelt message for his idol Virat Kohli who is celebrating his birthday on Tuesday (November 5). The India batting superstar turned 36 this year.

The right-handed batsman is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen of this generation. Many also consider him the greatest all-format batsman of all time. Virat Kohli led India to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2008 and made his debut for the senior Indian team in the same year.

It did not take him long to become a regular in India's limited-overs team. He was a part of the Indian squad that won the 2011 World Cup. In his very first World Cup game, Virat Kohli had scored a stunning century. After the retirement of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and other greats, he became the flagbearer of Indian cricket and has done a splendid job so far.

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Earlier this year, he brought down the curtains on his illustrious T20I career after helping India win the T20 World Cup. Kohli was adjudged the Player of the Match for his match-winning half-century in the final against South Africa.

Riyan Parag's birthday message for Virat Kohli:

Wishes have been pouring in from all quarters for Virat Kohli on his special day. And Riyan Parag also made sure to wish his senior India teammate. Time and again, Riyan Parag has called Kohli his idol and penned down a heartfelt message for him on his birthday.

Calling Kohli the greatest of all time, Riyan Parag wrote about the batting superstar's role in shaping his career.

"Happy Birthday to the greatest of all time! Your passion, aggression, and unmatched work ethic have not only set the standard in cricket but have also shaped me into the player I am today.

"Watching you play has been an inspiration, but sharing the field with you is a memory I will carry with me forever. Thank you for being a true legend, on and off the field. Here's to many more years of greatness!" wrote Riyan Parag.

Riyan Parag's special Instagram story for King Kohli. 🐐

- An inspiration to all...!!!! pic.twitter.com/zwt7XYMr3F

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 5, 2024

Kohli was recently seen in action during the three-match Test series against New Zealand. He failed to impress with the bat against the Black Caps as India lost the series 3-0. The loss ended India's long unbeaten run at home.

After a forgettable outing against New Zealand, Kohli will be looking to bounce back in the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia. The veteran batsman has a stunning record in Australia and would be looking to live up to the expectations.