“Virat Is The Greatest Player of This Generation”: Mohammad Amir Dismisses Comparisons With Babar, Root, and Smith

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir praises Virat Kohli’s unmatched consistency across all formats, calling him the best of this era.

December 24, 2024: Days after announcing his retirement from international cricket, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has hailed Virat Kohli as the greatest cricketer of this generation. Amir, who has always admired the Indian batting star, dismissed comparisons between Kohli and players like Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, asserting that Kohli’s achievements are unparalleled.

“Virat Kohli is the greatest player of this generation. I laugh when comparisons are made between him and Babar Azam, Steve Smith, or Joe Root. We cannot compare Virat Kohli to anyone because he has won so many matches for India, which seems impossible for any one player. Not just in one format, but in all three formats, Virat is the greatest batsman of this generation,” Amir said on the Cricket Predicta show.

Kohli’s Work Ethic: The Key to Longevity

Amir also credited Kohli’s exceptional work ethic as the cornerstone of his sustained success in cricket. He highlighted Kohli’s incredible comeback after a rough patch in England in 2014 and his decade-long consistency thereafter.

“Virat Kohli’s work ethic sets him apart from all players. After his bad phase in England in 2014, the way he made a comeback and then consistently performed brilliantly for the next 10 years was no ordinary feat,” Amir emphasized.

Amir Reflects on His Career Highlight: Dismissing Tendulkar

While discussing his cricketing journey, Amir fondly recalled dismissing Sachin Tendulkar during the 2009 Champions Trophy in South Africa as one of the highlights of his career.

“Dismissing Sachin Tendulkar was the most special moment for me. I bowled to him only once in my life during the 2009 Champions Trophy and dismissed him while playing against India. For three days after his dismissal, I was not in my senses; I could not believe I had taken Sachin paaji’s wicket,” Amir shared.

Amir’s Legacy in Cricket

Amir, who played 36 Tests, 31 ODIs, and 32 T20Is for Pakistan, was a key member of the squads that won the 2009 T20 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy.

His admiration for Kohli, coupled with his nostalgic reflection on his career, underlines Amir’s respect for cricketing greats and his own impactful legacy.

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Tags: Virat Kohli, Mohammad Amir, Babar Azam, Steve Smith, Joe Root, Cricket Legends, Sachin Tendulkar, 2009 Champions Trophy, Indian Cricket, Pakistan Cricket, Cricket Comparisons, Greatest Batsman.