Sri Lankan batter Pathum Nissanka has openly expressed his admiration for Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli, calling him his “favourite player in the world.” The young right-handed batsman, who has quickly become one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable players across formats, revealed this in a recent interaction that has since gone viral among cricket fans across the subcontinent.
For Nissanka, Kohli is more than just a player—he is an inspiration. His consistency, mental strength, and aggressive yet disciplined approach to the game have resonated deeply with the Sri Lankan star. “Virat Kohli is my favourite player in the world,” said Nissanka, with the kind of conviction that underlines how far Kohli’s influence extends, not just within Indian cricket but across the entire global cricketing community.The admiration is well-founded. Virat Kohli achievements in international cricket are staggering: over 25,000 runs across formats, more than 70 international centuries, and a career that has not only been about numbers but also about redefining the fitness and professionalism standards in modern cricket. For players like Nissanka, who are coming up in an era heavily influenced by Kohli’s dominance, he represents the gold standard.Pathum Nissanka, known for his calm demeanor and elegant stroke play, has modeled aspects of his own game on players like Kohli. Much like Kohli in his early years, Nissanka has built his reputation through a blend of grit and class. His performances in recent years, especially in the ODI and T20I formats, have cemented his place in the Sri Lankan setup as a key batter at the top of the order.The fact that Nissanka admires Kohli also points to the lasting legacy the Indian maestro has built across borders. It’s not just Indian youngsters who look up to him—players from nations like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, and even Australia have openly spoken of Kohli’s work ethic and intensity as qualities they respect deeply.In particular, Kohli transformation of fitness culture in Indian cricket is something that has inspired many young international players. Nissanka, who has worked diligently on his own fitness over the past few years, is no exception. Kohli’s dedication to training and maintaining elite physical standards has created a ripple effect throughout world cricket. This influence, especially on young cricketers in the subcontinent, is profound.The moment also reflects the healthy spirit of mutual respect in modern cricket. Despite fierce rivalries on the field, many players maintain admiration for their opponents. For fans, hearing a rising Sri Lankan star shower praise on an Indian icon offers a glimpse into the camaraderie that exists behind the scenes.For Sri Lanka, Nissanka is being touted as one of the pillars of their next generation. His calm temperament, consistency with the bat, and steady rise in all formats have drawn comparisons with other modern greats. And if he continues to take inspiration from Kohli game, Sri Lanka can hope to see him evolve into a long-term match-winner.As Kohli continues to play into the twilight of his illustrious career, such tributes from younger international stars like Pathum Nissanka are a testament to the legacy he’s built—one that transcends national boundaries and inspires even his on-field opponents. It’s a reminder that while records and trophies matter, a true icon leaves behind something more enduring: inspiration for the generations that follow.
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