'There's a Legacy which Virat Kohli will Leave Behind' - VVS Laxman

Lucky are those who have watched both Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli play in their prime. But, those who have played alongside them have been far luckier – VVS Laxman happens to be one of them. The veteran India batsman during a WION Global Summit in Dubai said both the players are similar – they are the trend-setters. Besides, he opined Virat Kohli inspires a generation, much like Sachin. Also, VVS Laxman noted the India captain would leave his legacy behind – the way maestro, Tendulkar did.

“There’s a legacy which Virat Kohli will leave. Sachin was an inspiration for an entire generation including players like me. He took a lot of pride playing for the country, scored tons of runs and consistently winning matches for over 24 years is never easy,” Laxman said.

Budding cricketers idolise Virat Kohli – VVS

In Laxman’s words, Virat has a fan following not just in India but across the cricketing globe. When compared the two greats of the game, VVS noted budding cricketers in the world aspire to be like them. Like Sachin Tendulkar put the burden on his shoulders for 24 years and delivered; the Indian team skipper has been doing the same job with the bat for a long time.

Laxman further explained the difference between two contrasting personalities. He said Sachin was a more calm head while aggression gets the best out of Kohli.

“Kohli is very similar to Sachin. He’s a trendsetter, role model to this generation of cricketers and not just limited to Indian. Budding cricketers look to idolise him. Both of them are little different as personalities are concerned – Sachin is more calm and reserved whereas Kohli is more aggressive and emotional.”

Kohli’s focus on fitness has helped India, says Laxman

VVS Laxman lauded Virat Kohli for bringing in the fitness culture in the India team. He refers to the Australia team led by Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting – who had fit players in their lineup throughout their captaincy span.

Furthermore, he added the focus on remaining fit had done a world of good to the India National Cricket Team. As a result, the fielding has become India’s strength, which when compared to yesteryears, wasn’t a significant deal in Indian cricket.

“Kohli has focused a lot on an important aspect which is critical which is on fitness. When a fit team takes on an opposition, it always carries an edge. It used to be the same for Australia under Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting. Kohli sets an example and it rubs on all the players. India will probably be the fittest team in the world currently. The fielding level has gone really high. All this will help the team do well in the pressure situation,” Laxman added.

Meanwhile, India will host Australia in the limited-over series, which begins on February 24th.