BT Sports Desk: Ahead of their crucial ICC Cricket World Cup match against India, several Dutch players expressed their admiration for Indian cricket stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Netherlands captain Scott Edwards praised Sharma’s impressive run-scoring record in ODIs. “Rohit Sharma has scored a lot of runs in this format,” Edwards stated.
All-rounder Bas de Leede was particularly impressed by Sharma’s impeccable timing and shot-making ability. “The way he times the ball is better than anyone else. Cannot wait to play against him, but not looking to bowl against him,” Bas remarked.
Opener Max O’Dowd simply described Sharma as “unbelievable.” “He is an unbelievable player. He is a great leader of the Indian side,” O’Dowd said.
Sharma’s opening partner Vikramjit Singh echoed the sentiment, recognizing Sharma as one of the best opening batters in the world. “We know how good he is. He is one of the best opening batters,” Vikramjit affirmed.
The Dutch players also had high praise for Kohli, acknowledging his consistent brilliance in run chases for India. “Virat Kohli is a massive wicket. In chasing totals, he has been so consistent for India throughout the years. You got to get him out early,” Edwards emphasized.
Edwards even went as far as to call Kohli arguably the “Greatest of All Time” and added, “Everybody looks up to him.”
Opener Vikramjit further emphasized Kohli’s charisma and popularity, saying, “Who does not love Virat? Everyone loves Virat. He is poetry in motion.”
Kohli has been India’s top scorer in the ongoing CWC 2023, amassing 543 runs in eight matches at an outstanding average of 108.60, including two centuries and four half-centuries. With a best score of 103*, he stands as the third-highest run-getter in the tournament.
Sharma has also made a significant impact with his explosive starts in the powerplay. In eight matches, he has accumulated 442 runs at an impressive average of 55.25 and a strike rate of over 122, with one century and two half-centuries. His highest score is 131.
The Dutch players’ admiration for Sharma and Kohli reflects the immense respect these Indian cricketers command on the international stage. Their performances have inspired countless aspiring cricketers around the globe, and their legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.
