Undoubtedly the two best batsmen for India in different era share many similarities. The two run-machine and record breakers in world cricket are loved by experts and many fans all over the world though one is cool-minded and one is hot-headed. Their dedication to the game is unquestionable which make them one of the best in the world.
Let’s have a look at what these two top century smashers in ODIs for India have in common between them:
1. They both started out young
Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have been playing cricket at the age which is unimaginable for us. At that age many were in school then.
(Photo by BCCI)
They broke out in International career also too early. Sachin played first International match at the age of 16 and Virat led his side to victory in the U-19 World Cup when he was 18 and next year he got a call from National Selectors.
2. Both of them were heroes in Australian Soil
There are very few in the world who thrash the dominant of cricket, Australians on their very own soil. Virat and Sachin are two of them.
Sachin played magnificiently from his first tour in 90s to his last tour in Australia. Virat too jerked the Australians few months back down-under. With 4 centuries in the four match series he shattered many records.
3. Bats at No.4
Both Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are comfortable batting at No.4 in the format which is the real test for a batsman’s class and temperament, the longest format of the game. They also batted at No.4 in ODIs too after being demoted down the order for the team’s cause.
4. Carried the burden of the Nation
Sachin Tendulkar undoubtedly carried the burden of the nation for two decades. He won many matches for India single-handedly and the expectations of the billions increased after every match. The same case is too with Virat Kohli. Known as an aggressive captain and successor to MS Dhoni, Virat too made his side win many matches single-handedly. He is now amongst the most trending people in India and people feel disappointed when he fails to contribute to his country..
5. Excelled in all formats
Sachin Tendulkar has record distributed in all the formats (ODI and Test then). With 100 International Centuries he has every kind of record in his book.
Virat too is one of the few player in the world who dominated in all formats. He is currently the only player in the world to be in ICC Top 10 Batsmen in all the three formats.
6. They are breaking records & making it look very easy
Breaking records in any International sport is not a piece of cake for any athlete. But these two genius have shattered many records which were hold by former greats.
Sachin has 100 International Centuries in 781 international innings. Virat has 34 International centuries in 226 international innings. They are now in top of the list of century scorers for India in ODIs.
7. They both were there when India won the ICC World Cup for the second time
Yes it is not a joke to be in the World Cup winning side. Sachin achieved that after 6 attempts. Whether you get to play or not, it is always a dream come true to be in the squad.