'Once-in-a-generation cricketer' - Ambati Rayudu lauds Virat Kohli after stellar knock against Australia

Star India batter Virat Kohli was one of the major reasons for the Men in Blue prevailing over Australia in the first semi-final of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. Notably, the thrilling encounter was played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, in Dubai, on Tuesday, March 4.

Kohli won yet another Player of the Match award due to a well-compiled 84-run knock during the second innings of the game. The former Indian cricketer, Ambati Rayudu, hailed the batting stalwart's proficiency in ticking over the scoreboard against spinners and his game sense as two major aspects that impressed him the most during his knock.

"I think his skill against leg spin and left-arm spin, along with his ability to rotate the strike through midwicket and square leg, was exceptional. On a pitch that was turning and stopping, he made it look effortless, which speaks volumes about his skill. Never doubt his ability to hit fours or sixes - it’s about composure and understanding what is needed on the day, then executing it to perfection," Rayudu said while speaking on JioHotstar.

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"He is a once-in-a-generation cricketer, the greatest of all time in this format. It’s a special night for him, his family, and 150 crore Indians who are blessed to witness his greatness," the former Indian cricketer further stated.

Redemption for him after 2023 final in Ahmedabad: Rayudu

The cricketer-turned-commentator extended praise to KL Rahul's batting performance too. Ambati Rayudu hoped for the wicketkeeper-batter to put in a similar performance in the final of the marquee ODI tournament. After Kohli departed post combining with Rahul for a 47-run stand, the latter stood firm and anchored the chase perfectly well. Rahul ended up unbeaten on 42* off 34 deliveries to see India through to the final. The summit clash will be played against the winners of the South Africa-New Zealand encounter. 

"He's been under tremendous pressure, as playing at No. 6 is not something he’s entirely accustomed to. But he handled it brilliantly, displaying immense maturity. The calculated risks he took and the shots he played were outstanding. He absorbed pressure, allowing Virat to play his natural game. I think this performance was, in a way, redemption for him after the 2023 final in Ahmedabad, which he took to heart. This is a fantastic way to make amends, and hopefully, he delivers another great knock in the final," Rayudu concluded.