Virat Kohli is the cricketing equivalent of Cristiano Ronaldo: Brian Lara

Brian Lara, the legendary West Indies batsman, feels that Virat Kohli, the Indian skipper, is equivalent to Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. Lara, who holds the record of the highest individual Test score of 400*, stated that the likes of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are at par with the 31-year-old Delhi-born Virat as far as talent is concerned.

But as per the southpaw, Virat’s level of commitment towards the sport makes him stand apart from the rest. Virat averages in excess of 50 in all the formats and Lara reckons that he should be a definite choice in any eleven, irrespective of the era.

Virat Kohli’s fitness level and his mental strength is unbelievable

“I think it has got a lot to do with Virat’s outstanding commitment besides his preparation. I don’t think he is any more talented than a KL Rahul or a Rohit Sharma but his commitment to prepare himself properly stands out. He is, for me, the cricketing equivalent of Cristiano Ronaldo,” Lara was quoted as saying in Hindustan Times.

“His fitness level and his mental strength is unbelievable. His batting skills are unbelievable. He is a guy you cannot leave out in any era. If a guy is averaging 50 plus in all versions of the game, then that is something which is unheard of,” Lara added.

Virat is currently leading Team India in the ODI series against the West Indies. Kohli has 1292 runs in 2019 in ODIs, the most by any batsman. Going ahead, he is also speculated to break a number of records, especially that of Sachin Tendulkar, who retired back in 2013.

As far as Ronaldo is concerned, Virat has been an ardent follower of him. Earlier, he was asked to choose his favourite among Lionel Messi and Ronaldo and Virat didn’t hesitate to take the latter’s name. As per the Men in Blue’s captain, Ronaldo is a complete player owing to his skills.

Kohli believes that “Messi is a freak, absolute natural talent, and his ability is second to none.” He admires the Portuguese’s will to succeed. Virat also likes how Ronaldo maintains his fitness levels, something Kohli himself is known for.