Former Indian captain Virat Kohli recently paid high praise to Australian cricketer Steve Smith, distinguishing him as the finest Test batter of our time. This endorsement from Kohli is not a casual compliment, as the former Indian skipper himself has a formidable reputation in the world of cricket. Specifically, he admired Smith’s remarkable consistency and outstanding average, both features that make Smith a standout player in his field.
Kohli’s praise for Smith has caught the attention of many, particularly because it was given in the run-up to the World Test Championship Final. This 34-year-old cricket icon didn’t mince his words while putting forth his thoughts on Smith’s cricketing prowess. “In my view, Steve Smith is the best Test player of this generation,” Kohli professed, underlining Smith’s adaptability as a key attribute of his success.
Unquestionably, Smith’s versatility on the cricket field is noteworthy. No matter the pitch, weather conditions, or opponent, Smith consistently finds a way to score runs, adapting his style as required. This is a trait that Kohli and many others admire in Smith, as it underlines a high degree of skill and cricketing intelligence.
Moreover, Smith’s impressive record speaks for itself. His batting average, hovering around 60 in approximately 85-90 Tests, is nothing short of extraordinary. As Kohli rightly pointed out, this record is simply “unbelievable”. The data alone paint Smith as a cricketer of unparalleled calibre, consistently delivering performances that leave spectators in awe.
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Virat Kohli heaps praise on Steve Smith
In the past decade, the Test format has witnessed many great players. Yet, Smith’s record has remained exceptional, signifying his firm place in cricket’s Hall of Fame. Kohli emphasized this point, stating, “The consistency and impact with which he scores runs, I haven’t seen any Test player doing that in the last 10 years.”
Such a statement from Kohli, a cricketer who himself has had a remarkable career, carries significant weight. The acknowledgement of Smith’s skill and temperament is a testament to his exceptional talent. This praise further cements Smith’s position as one of the finest cricketers in the game today.
In conclusion, the admiration expressed by Virat Kohli for Steve Smith shines a light on Smith’s consistent excellence and unrivalled adaptability in Test cricket. For a player of Kohli’s stature to classify Smith as the finest Test batter of this era, it undeniably adds an extra feather to Smith’s cap. It is a tribute to Smith’s relentless pursuit of excellence, and a recognition of his outstanding performances, skill, and temperament. After all, to be commended by one cricketing stalwart is a significant honour, and Steve Smith has undoubtedly earned it.
