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Virat Kohli Picks Best Batsmen by Shot: Veteran Indian batsman Virat Kohli has become synonymous with ODI cricket. Known as the 'Chase Master', Virat has broken countless records throughout his career. Recently, during the first ODI against the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram, he crossed the historic milestone of 15,000 runs in international cricket. He became only the second cricketer in the world to achieve this feat.
In this match, Kohli played a blistering, unbeaten innings of 139* off just 88 balls featuring 10 fours and 9 sixes leading India to a magnificent 8-wicket victory. Speaking to the official broadcaster 'Star Sports' after the match, Virat selected the seven best players in ODI history based on specific cricketing shots and skills.
Let’s find out which batsman Virat Kohli considers the master of each shot:
Virat Kohli's Top 7 ODI Batsmen by Shot Selection
1. Straight Drive: Sachin Tendulkar
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For the 'straight drive' considered the safest and most technically precise shot in cricket Virat Kohli chose Sachin Tendulkar, often hailed as the 'God of Cricket'. Sachin's straight drive remains a visual treat for cricket lovers to this day.
2. Cover Drive: Kumar Sangakkara
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While the cover drive is often regarded as Virat Kohli's own signature shot, when it came to naming the best, Virat unhesitatingly chose former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara. Sangakkara's timing and classic style made his cover drive truly exquisite.
3. Flick Shot: Rahul Dravid
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For the 'flick shot ', which involves sending deliveries aimed at the pads across the boundary with great finesse, Virat selected Rahul Dravid, famously known as 'The Wall'. This shot by Dravid was a testament to his excellent technique and balance.
4. Cut Shot: Virender Sehwag
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For the 'cut shot ', a stroke that demoralizes bowlers facing short-pitched deliveries Kohli’s top pick was India's former explosive opening batsman, Virender Sehwag. The fearlessness with which Sehwag played the cut shot over the point and third-man regions is unparalleled.
Also Read: Virat Kohli 139 vs WI: Full List of Records Broken by Chase Master
5. Sweep Shot: Matthew Hayden
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When it came to using the 'sweep shot' as a lethal weapon against spinners, Virat Kohli named Australian legend and opening batsman Matthew Hayden as the best. Hayden's height and reach proved highly effective in neutralizing the spinners' strategies.
6. Six Hitting: Chris Gayle
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It is impossible to talk about hitting the ball out of the stadium or simply hitting sixes without mentioning the 'Universe Boss.' Virat considers West Indies legend Chris Gayle to be number one when it comes to the art of hitting sixes in ODIs.
7. Running Between the Wickets: AB de Villiers
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Beyond batting strokes, Kohli selected his close friend and former South African legend AB de Villiers as the best when it comes to sprinting and stealing runs between the wickets.
Fans are really appreciating this video shared by Star Sports. This list, chosen by Virat Kohli, demonstrates that, despite being a great batsman of modern cricket, he deeply respects the history of the game and the skills of his senior counterparts.
Also Read: Virat Kohli vs Sachin Tendulkar: Stats Comparison, Who is the GOAT in ODIs?
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