Virat Kohli Will Bat As Long As He Is Breathing: Matthew Hayden In Awe Of Indian Skipper's Fitness

Former Australian opener, Matthew Hayden heaps high praise for the fitness standards of Virat Kohli. The Indian skipper is not only one of the finest batsman in the world – arguably, the best -but also is an inspiration in terms of fitness.

He is known to have a rigorous physical routine, and has revealed about the strict changes he made in his diet – cutting down butter chicken and excess fats – to increase the strength and stamina.

In a recent chatshow, Cricket Connected of the broadcaster, Star Sports, Matthew Hayden was asked about how long does he feel the right-hander could play the game. Hayden, in a humorous way, suggested that as long as Kohli’s heart is pumping, as long as Kohli’s lungs are inhaling, he will bat.

The Aussie opines that the 31-year-old is remarkably fit, which has been a key element in his success over the past decade. Virat Kohli recently became the fastest batsman to 22,000 international runs, and 12,000 ODI runs.

Speaking to Star Sports, Matthew Hayden said, “I think he will go on as long as he is sucking air into his lungs and has a heartbeat. One of the features I think of Virat has been his remarkable fitness levels. So for me, I think that is a really key element.”

Virat Kohli to miss 3 Test matches against Australia

In what has been an exciting tour of Australia hitherto with the hosts winning the ODI series and the visitors grabbing the T20I series, the 4-match Test series promises to be another memorable bout in the history of the two teams.

However, the shine of the series will get a bit dull when Virat Kohli leaves for home after the first Test in Adelaide. The BCCI has granted the Indian captain paternity leave to attend the birth of his first child with his wife and Bollywood actress, Anushka Sharma. Hence, he will miss the Test matches in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.

Under the leadership of the Delhi-born batsman, India won the Test series on their previous tour of Australia a couple of years ago. Ajinkya Rahane, the vice-captain of the team, will lead the side in Kohli’s absence.

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