Former Indian Test opener Wasim Jaffer has tried to compare the ODI careers of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Jaffer highlighted that Kohli has established himself as the best batter in the 50-over version. However, at the same time, Jaffer reckons run-scoring was more challenging during Sachin Tendulkar’s era.

Sachin and Kohli are regarded as two of the best ODI batters of all time. While Sachin is the highest run-getter in the format with 18426 runs, Kohli recently breached the 15000-run mark against the West Indies in the first ODI on Sunday when he scored an amazing knock of 139 runs.

However, it is difficult to compare the two great batters as both of them played in different eras, with different rules and pitch conditions.

Wasim Jaffer said on his YouTube Channel, “There is no one like Virat in ODI cricket. The rules were different in Sachin’s time. We also need to understand that. Things are slightly in favor of batsmen due to the two new balls. That was not there during Sachin’s time and there was just one ball, which was very difficult because of the reverse swing. Just four fielders were in the circle. Now it’s five, so it’s become a little easier to score runs.

“The conditions were more difficult during Sachin’s time, but the way Virat bats, his ratio of scoring hundreds, and the runs he scores while chasing, he is right at the top. According to me, Virat is No. 1 in ODI cricket.”

The former domestic giant praised Virat Kohli and added it is an honour to watch him bat at the top level.

He concluded, “It seems like Virat Kohli has not gone anywhere. It is not easy to play international cricket after a gap. He is batting in a different gear. It’s a treat to watch. 55 ODI hundreds, and chasing 300 was like a cakewalk with how he and Shubman batted. Virat Kohli is a delight to watch when he plays like this. It’s an honor to watch him bat.”The second ODI between India and the West Indies will be played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, on Wednesday.