Virat Kohli is just getting better and better which is the scary thing: Steve Smith

From breaking into the Indian side as an impulsive young prospect to paving his way to becoming a modern-day great– Virat Kohli’s journey in international cricket has undoubtedly been phenomenal. The 31-year-old has etched a plethora of records to his name and his batting records prove his calibre.

Regardless of any format of the game, Virat has not held back in showing his batting proficiency. While donning the national jersey in 86 Tests, 248 ODIs and 82 T20Is, Kohli has mustered over 20,000 runs in international cricket. He is among the very few batsmen who boast an average of over 50 across all formats of the game.

It’s safe to say that Kohli’s career has aged like fine wine, especially after donning the skipper’s hat. Among the elite list of batsmen which Kohli is a part of, Australia’s Steve Smith is also seen as a daunting name. Like Kohli, Smith has also climbed up the ranks to be among one of the best modern-day players.

Talking about their camaraderie, no cricket fanatic can forget the sight of Kohli asking Indian fans to not boo Smith. The Aussie stalwart received a hostile reception post his return from the infamous ball-tampering scandal. However, in the 2019 World Cup match between India and Australia, Kohli notched up the spirit of the game and told fans not to boo and ridicule Smith.

I’ve known Virat for a long time: Steve Smith

Reflecting on their on-field and off-field relationship, Smith said that his first encounter with Kohli was in 2007. Since then, they’ve had a lot of chats on and off the field. Smith also lauded Kohli and termed him a ‘terrific guy’. According to the Australian run-machine, Kohli is getting better and better with time, which is a scary thing for all opponents.

“I’ve known Virat for a long time… I think 2007 when he was a part of the academy in Brisbane. I wasn’t actually a part of the intake then, but I was there doing a bit of bowling and stuff. We both have had nice chats off the field and we also had some run-ins in the early days on the field. Those things happen when you’re playing for your team and your emotions can sometimes get out of control,” said Smith on Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected while talking to VVS Laxman and Jatin Sapru.

“Virat is a terrific guy and he has done terrific things with India as an ambassador of the game. He is just getting better and better which is the scary thing,” added the Australian stalwart.