Former Pakistan gun fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has heaped praise on Virat Kohli after his match-winning knock of 101 runs against South Africa in the ongoing World Cup at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday. Akhtar reckons Kohli’s sheer commitment sets him apart from the pack.

Kohli got off to a brisk start against the Proteas but he quickly realized that the pitch was difficult to bat on against the spinners. Ergo, Kohli showed patience in his game and took his time in the middle overs.

The talisman once again played a risk-free game and scored his much-awaited 49th ODI century to match Sachin Tendulkar’s tally. Kohli added a crucial alliance of 134 runs with Shreyas Iyer, who scored 77 runs. The right-hander scored 10 fours in his fine knock as he batted with guile on a tricky pitch.

“Kohli has now completed 49 centuries in ODI cricket. It’s mind-boggling. Kohli has got to this landmark with sheer commitment, focus and fitness. His sheer will to become the best batter ever is what sets him apart from other batters,” said Akhtar in a video posted on X.

The former speedster added that Kohli’s commitment could be a huge lesson for all the youngsters who want to make it big in their careers.

“There have been many great batters before but Kohli became the best through his sheer commitment. This is also a lesson for all youngsters who want to achieve their dreams,” Akhtar added.

Kohli has scored 543 runs in eight matches of the ongoing World Cup 2023 at an impressive average of 108.60 and a strike rate of 88.29 and he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament after Quinton de Kock, who has amassed 550 runs.

India will next take on the Netherlands at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday.