Have learnt a lot from Virat Kohli’s batting, says Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman

Talented Pakistani opening batsman Fakhar Zaman is in awe of Indian captain Virat Kohli. The Indian batsman recently reclaimed the top spot in ICC rankings for Test batsmen after producing yet another quality performance with the bat in the third Test against England which India won. Zaman, a left-hand bat, said he is not only impressed with the consistency of Kohli but also has learnt a lot from the latter.

Kohli hit 200 runs in the Trent Bridge Test, including a century in the second innings, which helped his team dominate the game and win it eventually by 203 runs. He was adjudged the Man of the Match and with 440 runs already under his belt in this series which is by far the highest for both teams, the man is also a favourite to win the man of the series award.

Kohli sets an example for all

“There is no doubt that Virat Kohli is a world-class player who sets a fine example for all to follow with his hard work and his batting,” Zaman told Sky Sports on Thursday, August 23. “I for one really enjoy watching Virat Kohli bat and I feel that I learn a lot by watching this master batsman at work.”

The 28-year-old himself has also made a number of records in his brief international career so far. While he broke former West Indian legend Sir Vivian Richards to become the quickest to score 1,000 runs in ODIs, he has also slammed a double hundred in the 50-over format as the first Pakistani batsman – in series against Zimbabwe last month. It was also Zaman who hit a century against India in the final of the Champions Trophy against Kohli’s India in England last year to help Pakistan win their trophy.

Awarded with Pakistan Cricket Board’s Outstanding Performance Award for 2018, he said: “I am obviously happy about reaching such milestones but also feel honoured that I was able to break the quickest to 1000 runs in ODIs record, which was previously jointly held by batsmen such as the legendary Sir Vivian Richards.”

Zaman, who made his international debut last year and averages over 76 in 18 ODI games he has played so far, wishes to make it to Pakistan’s Test team as well and said he is working on his technique towards that end. His next big test lies in next month’s Asia Cup where Pakistan are likely to take on India a minimum of two times.

For all the latest cricket news and other updates follow CricTracker.