How Virat Kohli’s Chase Masterclass Against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy Left Ponting in Awe
The Masterclass: Ponting lauds Virat Kohli’s chase masterclass against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy
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As the dust settled on the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, one man’s phenomenal performance stood out amidst the excitement of the tournament. Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 96 off 106 deliveries against Pakistan was nothing short of a masterclass, and even the great Ricky Ponting couldn’t help but be impressed. In this article, we’ll delve into what made Kohli’s chase so remarkable and why Ponting believes he’s the best 50-over player of all time.
Kohli’s Composure and Precision
Chasing 242, India’s innings seemed in disarray early on, with wickets tumbling down like a domino effect. However, Kohli, ever the stalwart, anchored the innings with composure and precision. Forming a crucial partnership with Shreyas Iyer (56), Kohli’s well-timed strokes and controlled aggression guided India home to safety.
A Champion Player in the Making
Ponting, a man who knows a thing or two about consistency and excellence, was left in awe of Kohli’s performance. Speaking about Kohli’s remarkable achievement, Ponting stated, "He’s obviously been a champion player for a long, long time. And particularly in the white-ball formats, where he’s been an unbelievably good 50-over player."
The All-Time Record in Sight
Kohli’s innings not only propelled India to victory but also saw him surpass the 14,000-run mark in ODIs, placing him behind only Kumar Sangakkara and Sachin Tendulkar. Ponting believes Kohli is driven to surpass these greats, saying, "I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better 50-over player than Virat Kohli. Now that he’s gone past me and only two ahead of him, I’m sure he would want to give himself the best chance to be remembered as the all-time leading run scorer in the game."
The Key to Kohli’s Success: Hunger and Fitness
According to Ponting, Kohli’s unparalleled fitness and hunger for success are the keys to his sustained excellence. "As long as the hunger’s there, obviously physical-wise, he’s probably as fit as he’s ever been and works exceptionally hard on that side of his game." With this relentless drive, it’s no wonder Kohli continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of 50-over cricket.
Conclusion: Kohli’s Masterclass Seals His Legacy
Virat Kohli’s chase against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy was a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication. As Ponting so eloquently put it, Kohli is "an unbelievably good 50-over player." As the debate about his potential to surpass the all-time records continues, one thing is clear – Kohli’s masterclass has cemented his status as one of the greats of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who impressed Ricky Ponting with his unbeaten 96 against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy?
A: Virat Kohli
Q: What was Kohli’s score in that match?
A: 96 off 106 deliveries
Q: Who does Kohli trail behind in the all-time run scorers’ list?
A: Kumar Sangakkara and Sachin Tendulkar
Q: What does Ponting believe is the key to Kohli’s sustained success?
A: Hunger and fitness
