Michael Vaughan Compares Virat Kohli To Lionel Messi, Says His 50th Ton In World Cup Final Is 'Written In The Stars'

While talking about Virat Kohli's form in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, former England captain Michael Vaughan compared him to Argentina's football legend Lionel Messi.

Virat Kohli of India poses after being named Player of the Match following the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between India and Bangladesh at MCA International Stadium on October 19, 2023 in Pune, India.

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Former England captain Michael Vaughan isn't surprised by the exceptional performance of Indian batting sensation Virat Kohli in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023. In just five matches, Kohli has amassed a remarkable 354 runs at an astonishing average of 118, including three fifties and a century. Vaughan drew parallels between Kohli and football legend Lionel Messi, highlighting how an inspired Messi led Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Vaughan also likened Kohli's inspired play to potentially taking India "all the way" in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.

Speaking on the Australian Podcast Channel, 'Club Prairie Fire,' Michael Vaughan expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli's abilities:

"Virat Kohli in the chase, there's no one better. It wouldn't surprise me if he gets a 49th (century) before the final, and his 50th in the final. It's written in the stars," Vaughan remarked during the 'Club Prairie Fire' podcast.

"I actually put it on social media – great, great players always arrive in World Cups. It defines their legacies. Look at the footballers, Lionel Messi had to win the World Cup for Argentina, and he did it. Virat has already won a World Cup but you just feel he's going to drive the Indian team all the way."

Don't see how anyone will get close to India: Vaughan

Michael Vaughan also believes that Team India is far ahead of the competition in the ICC Men's World Cup 2023 and is the clear favourite to secure the title. He expressed the difficulty other teams might face in dismantling India's strong batting lineup.

"I'd love to know how they (India) can be stopped. I can't see it at the minute. Yes, you can get early wickets. But the pitches aren't going to do much. How are you going to get them 3-4 down quickly? Aussies were the closest to surprise them when they got three out early in Chennai, but I don't see how anyone will get close to them," Vaughan added during the podcast.

In the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup 2023, India sit comfortably at the top of the table with an impressive net run rate of +1.3. They are the only undefeated team in the tournament. The Men In Blue are scheduled to face the defending champions, England, in their next match on Sunday, October 29, at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.