Friendships and relationships in cricket often cross national lines. While international cricket competition is fierce, it is heartening to see players from different countries developing close friendships away from the game. For example, three retired Pakistani players had nothing but praise for Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli.
3 Former Pakistani Cricketers Who Are Big Fans Of Virat Kohli:
#1 Shoaib Akhtar
The “Rawalpindi Express,” or **Shoaib Akhtar**, is one of the world’s quickest bowlers. Shoaib Akhtar, famous for his rapid deliveries and aggressive on-field demeanour, is no stranger to the game’s fierce atmosphere. Outside of the field of play, though, he has spoken openly about how much he looks up to Virat Kohli.
Akhtar has been quite vocal in his admiration for Kohli’s professionalism, commitment, and extraordinary talent as a batsman. He thinks other cricket players may learn a lot from Kohli’s dedication to fitness and competitive spirit on the pitch. The fact that Shoaib Akhtar can see beyond their rivalry and acknowledge Kohli’s talent is proof that greatness can conquer everything.
#2 Shahid Afridi
Former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi, often known as “Boom Boom Afridi,” is a vocal fan of Virat Kohli’s talent. The powerful batsman and likeable character Afridi has spoken highly of Kohli’s reliability and ability to chase down targets with ease.
Afridi, who has competed against Indian cricket sides on several occasions, agrees that Kohli’s commitment to the game has raised the bar. Kohli, in his opinion, serves as an example to cricketers all around the globe because of how well he copes with intense public scrutiny.
#3 Wasim Akram
Wasim Akram, affectionately known as the “Sultan of Swing,” has achieved legendary status in cricket. The remarks of Akram, a former Pakistani cricketer and one of the best fast bowlers in the game’s history, are weighty indeed. Like many others, he has praised Virat Kohli’s batting prowess.
Wasim Akram has spoken highly of Kohli’s ability to switch gears across forms. Kohli’s reliability and drive to score runs have left an indelible stamp on the game of cricket at every level, from Tests to ODIs to T20s. Akram thinks Kohli is a modern-day cricketing legend because of his technical skill and mental toughness.
Even though rivalries are at the forefront of cricket matches, respect for excellent players is universal. Former Pakistani cricket greats like Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi, and Wasim Akram all had nothing but praise for Virat Kohli. The universality of cricket and the mutual respect it encourages shines through in their recognition of his talent, commitment, and consistency.
They have come together to honour the sport’s ethos and recognise brilliance. The influence of Virat Kohli on international cricket goes well beyond his hitting records and resides instead in the awe and respect he has earned from players all around the globe.
