Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has never been one to lightly praise or compare cricket's greats, but Virat Kohli's 52nd ODI century in Ranchi has forced the former Indian captain to speak bluntly and eloquently about his place and importance. For Gavaskar, the answer is clear: Kohli has now reached a level in ODI cricket that only a few players have ever reached. On Sunday, Gavaskar called Virat Kohli the greatest ODI cricketer of all time and said that the Indian legend's world record for centuries reflects his unmatched stature in the format.
Who is the greatest in the ODI format?
Kohli scored his 52nd ODI century on Sunday. He played an innings of 135 runs off 120 balls, helping India reach 349 for eight in the first ODI against South Africa. "I don't think there's any doubt about it. I mean, it's not just me," Gavaskar told Geostar. I think everyone who has played with and against him agrees that he is the greatest in the ODI format.
Referring to Ponting's statement
He said, "Look, Kohli has scored 52 centuries. That puts him very high, so to speak." The former Indian captain pointed out that Australia's Ricky Ponting also acknowledged Kohli's ability. Gavaskar said, "I just heard Ricky Ponting said that Kohli is the best he has seen in ODI cricket. I mean, when an Australian captain says Kohli is the best, I don't think there's any room for debate. Everyone would agree that receiving praise from an Australian is rare."
Is Kohli above Sachin?
Gavaskar said that there was a time when it was said that no one could match Sachin Tendulkar's 51 ODI centuries, but surpassing this record gives Kohli a distinct identity. He said, "You know Sachin was at the top with 51 centuries, but when you surpass the great Sachin Tendulkar, you know where you stand."
Reaction to Grovel
Gavaskar described South African coach Shukrie Conrad's controversial "Grovell" comment on India as ill-advised. He said, "It may have been an ill-advised comment – wrong time, wrong place. I hope he addresses it the next time he speaks to the media. I don't think there's a need for an apology. I personally don't believe in apologies."
"The coach was a bit carried away"
Gavaskar said, "But it's acceptable for everyone to acknowledge and make amends. Such things happen. In the heat of the moment, you can get carried away and say something that goes a bit too far. Given the strong relationship between Indian and South African cricket over the last 30 years, I think he can simply clarify that he was a bit carried away."
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