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The discussion around Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Virat Kohli often ignites passionate debates among cricket enthusiasts. These three icons represent distinct eras of cricket, each leaving an indelible mark on the game through their unique abilities, achievements, and influence.
Sunil Gavaskar: The pioneer of indian batting
Gavaskar emerged as the bedrock of Indian cricket in the 1970s and 1980s when Test cricket reigned supreme, and ODIs were still in their infancy. Gavaskar’s immaculate technique and courage against the fearsome fast bowlers of his time, notably the West Indies’ lethal pace attack, remain legendary.
Gavaskar achieved many firsts, including becoming the first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs and retiring with 34 Test centuries, a world record during his era. His exploits came in an age without helmets and on bowler-friendly pitches, making his accomplishments even more remarkable. By showcasing unmatched consistency and discipline, Gavaskar earned global respect for Indian cricket and set a benchmark for future generations.
Sachin Tendulkar: The face of Indian cricket
Sachin Tendulkar, revered as the “Little Master,” transcended formats, excelling in Tests, ODIs, and witnessing the rise of T20 cricket. His unmatched versatility, adaptability, and ability to dominate bowling attacks across conditions made him one of the greatest players in cricketing history.
Tendulkar’s career milestones include scoring the most runs in both Tests and ODIs and becoming the first cricketer to achieve 100 international centuries. A vital figure in India’s ODI World Cup 2011 triumph, he inspired countless fans during the 1990s and early 2000s, when Indian cricket began gaining global prominence. His longevity, consistency, and ability to handle immense pressure made him a symbol of excellence and hope.
Also READ: Sachin Tendulkar shares a special post for daughter Sara as she joins STF as Director
Virat Kohli: The modern-day master
Virat Kohli, often referred to as the “Chase Master,” is synonymous with modern cricket’s aggressive and fitness-driven ethos. Kohli’s dominance spans all three formats – Tests, ODIs, and T20Is – making him a complete player.
With over 27,000 international runs and unmatched prowess in ODI chases, Kohli has redefined batting standards. As India’s best Test captain, he revitalized the team’s approach with an aggressive mindset, transforming them into a formidable unit. His intensity, discipline, and commitment to fitness have set new benchmarks, ensuring his legacy as one of the finest cricketers of his era.
A viral moment: Gavaskar’s humorous verdict on ultimate cricketer
Recently, a video went viral featuring Gavaskar during a show, The Front Bar, where he was asked to choose between Tendulkar, Kohli, and himself as the better player. After a moment’s pause, Gavaskar humorously replied, “I think everybody was very good, but I think Gary Sobers was the best.”
This unexpected response left the co-host amused, who quickly noted, “I didn’t give him that as an option.” Gavaskar, with his signature dry wit, quipped, “That’s where the dry comes in,” The light-hearted banter continued, with another co-host jokingly remarking, “Don’t get frustrated with the guest on Drip Tray. He gave you his answer, and that’s his answer.”
Sachin Tendulkar v Virat Kohli v Sunil Gavaskar.
Who was better?
Sunny has a very interesting answer 👀#TheFrontBar pic.twitter.com/nBTOigPRo7
— The Front Bar 🏆 (@thefrontbar7) December 3, 2024
Sir Garfield Sobers, Gavaskar’s unexpected choice, is widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder in cricket history. Sobers’ achievements include scoring 26 Test centuries, including a then-record unbeaten 365 against Pakistan in 1958, which stood for 36 years.
Sobers’ versatility was unmatched; he could win games with bat, ball, or in the field. In 1968, he became the first cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in a first-class match, representing Nottinghamshire. Beyond his skill, Sobers’ sportsmanship and grace made him one of cricket’s first truly global superstars, admired across generations.
