Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer believes Virat Kohli has another three to four years of top-level cricket ahead of him and is well on his way to surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries. Kohli, who currently holds 82 centuries across formats, recently added to his tally with a ton against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Jaffer, speaking at the launch of the India Corporate T20 Bash (ICBT20), expressed confidence that Kohli’s form and hunger for runs would drive him to break what once seemed like an unbreakable record.
“As a cricket fan, you want to see Virat as much as you can. The way he played against Pakistan, nobody wanted him to get out. I am sure everyone wishes to see him play for another 3-4 years and rewrite history,” Jaffer said. He also emphasized that even Tendulkar would be pleased to see Kohli achieve this milestone.
Shubman Gill’s Rise and Future of Indian Batting
Jaffer also praised young Indian batsman Shubman Gill but cautioned against direct comparisons with Kohli. He acknowledged Gill’s outstanding performances, including being named Player of the Series in the England tour and making a strong start in the Champions Trophy 2025. Jaffer believes Gill and fellow young star Yashasvi Jaiswal will play a crucial role in shaping India’s batting future.
“It is unfair to compare Shubman with Virat. He is carving his own path and has been playing terrific cricket. I hope he continues to shine as expectations from him are high,” Jaffer added.
Gibbs Backs Kohli for Longevity
Former South African cricketer Herschelle Gibbs also weighed in on Kohli’s future, stating that his exceptional fitness and unwavering hunger for runs could see him playing at the highest level for at least four more years. Gibbs compared Kohli’s longevity to that of AB de Villiers, who retired despite maintaining peak fitness.
“Virat’s ability to handle pressure, especially while chasing in ODIs, is phenomenal,” Gibbs said. He also backed India as the favorites to win the Champions Trophy 2025, though he acknowledged South Africa as strong contenders.
The ICBT20, where Jaffer made these remarks, will feature six teams in its inaugural season, set to be played in May. With Kohli continuing to dominate world cricket, all eyes will be on him as he inches closer to rewriting history.
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