New Delhi: Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar came out in support of former Team India captain Virat Kohli who has been under the scanner for some time now due to his underwhelming batting form in international cricket. The ex-Pakistan pace bowler said that Virat should play cricket till the age of 45 and hit at least 110 international centuries. Akhtar has also described Indian batting icon, Sachin Tendulkar, as one of the 'greatest and humble people'.
Fans have been eagerly waiting for Virat Kohli's 71st international century. The last time Virat scored an international ton was back in 2019 and since then Virat has been struggling with his form. In IPL 2022, the RCB legend scored just 341 runs in 16 IPL matches at an average of 22.73.
“Before passing statements, people should understand that small kids look up to them. Say good things about Virat Kohli. Give him the respect he deserves. As a Pakistani, I am saying that he is the greatest player of all time. I want him to score 110 centuries in international cricket. I want him to play till the age of 45," Akhtar told Sportskeeda.
“This tough situation is preparing you for 110 centuries. People are writing you off, tweeting against you. If you tweet about Diwali, you are criticised. People tweet about your wife and kid. When you lose the World Cup, you are heavily criticised. Things cannot get any worse. Just go out there, and show everyone who Virat Kohli is," he added.
Akhtar hailed Sachin Tendulkar by calling him one the most humblest person he has known in his life.
“Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest and humblest guy ever. I really adore him when it comes to his behavior and nature. He is always thoughtful about what he says and respects other cricketers. People should learn from Sachin Tendulkar. Despite being such a great cricketer, he doesn’t tweet or say anything that can hurt anyone. Similarly, other former cricketers should give mature statements," he said.