(PTI Photo)
Former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor showered praise on India’s Virat Kohli, placing him alongside global sporting icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of influence. Kohli, renowned for his stellar cricketing achievements, has transcended boundaries to become a revered figure worldwide.
With an immense fan base that extends beyond India’s borders, Kohli’s presence is marked by resounding chants of “Kohli Kohli” wherever he goes. His influence extends far beyond the cricketing realm, establishing him as a global sporting icon.
Kohli’s social media following rivals that of elite athletes like Messi, Ronaldo, and LeBron James, illustrating his immense popularity and impact. The International Cricket Council has leveraged his stature to promote cricket in regions where the sport is less prevalent.
Speaking on the 180 Not Out podcast with media professional Raman Raheja, Ross Taylor emphasized Kohli’s status as not just a cricketing superstar but a dominant force in the broader world of sports.
“Players are putting outposts endorsing products and things like that. Who would have thought of that in 2008? Someone like Kohli, who is a superstar in the world of cricket, but is also a global superstar in the world of sports. In terms of Instagram and social media, he’s up there with Ronaldo and Messi!”
“Yeah, I think you are more accessible, don’t think sportsmen are just as critiqued. I think movie stars, Bollywood stars, politicians are all under the microscope now because of social media but I don’t think that is a bad thing.”
The next opportunity to witness Virat Kohli in action will be during the T20 World Cup 2024.
India’s star batsman, Virat Kohli, will be gearing up to represent the national team in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Scheduled to commence on June 1st in the United States of America and the Caribbean, the tournament will culminate with the final on June 30th.
Kohli’s last appearance was in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, where he showcased exceptional form for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite his stellar performances with the bat, RCB finished 4th on the points table.
Ending the IPL season as the leading run-scorer, Kohli amassed an impressive tally of 741 runs in 15 innings at an average of 61.75. His remarkable display included one century and five half-centuries, with a striking rate exceeding 154. As he transitions to the T20 World Cup, Kohli will be eager to replicate his IPL success and contribute towards India’s quest for glory.
