Virat Kohli, one of modern cricket’s greatest icons, has often spoken about his admiration for the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. In a recent statement that has delighted fans of both players, Kohli expressed his appreciation for a specific skill in Tendulkar’s vast batting repertoire—the lap shot. Speaking candidly, Kohli remarked, “One thing that I would like to have from Sachin Tendulkar paaji is the lap shot. He is the first one who started to lap shot against spinners, that shot was so smooth.”
This statement not only reflects Kohli’s humility and respect for the master blaster but also draws attention to a shot that was way ahead of its time. In an era where power-hitting dominates headlines, Kohli’s acknowledgment of the lap shot highlights the finesse and intelligence that defined Tendulkar’s batting.
The lap shot, a stroke that involves delicately guiding the ball behind square on the leg side, usually against spinners, was a signature part of Tendulkar’s technique during his prime. While it may not have the brute force of a pull shot or the glamour of a cover drive, it requires impeccable timing, sharp reflexes, and a deep understanding of field placements. It’s a stroke often associated with subtlety, precision, and anticipation.
Tendulkar’s mastery over this shot made him a nightmare for captains trying to set fields. He would often play it with minimal movement, using the bowler’s pace to glide the ball past short fine leg or square leg. What made it so effective was its unpredictability—bowlers had to constantly adjust their lengths, and even slight errors in line were punished with quiet elegance.
Kohli, known for his technically sound and classical approach to batting, has added numerous modern strokes to his arsenal. However, his admiration for Tendulkar’s lap shot reveals a side of him that values grace and smart shot-making as much as aggressive hitting. It’s a nod to the artistry of cricket—a game that’s as much about timing and touch as it is about power.
The lap shot has seen a resurgence in recent years, especially with the advent of T20 cricket. Players like AB de Villiers, Jos Buttler, and Glenn Maxwell have adapted it into versions like the scoop and the paddle sweep. Yet, the purity with which Tendulkar played it remains unmatched. Kohli’s reflection on that shot not only celebrates Tendulkar’s innovation but also bridges the styles of two generations of greats.
Such moments of reflection are important, especially in today’s cricketing landscape where the game moves at a frenetic pace. Kohli’s statement reminds fans and young cricketers of the value of learning from legends, understanding the nuances of technique, and appreciating the timeless shots that have defined the game.
As Kohli continues to create records and write his own legacy, his tribute to Tendulkar’s lap shot adds yet another chapter to the beautiful mentor-protégé story that Indian cricket fans cherish. It’s a simple yet profound compliment—from one legend to another.
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