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From Sunil Gavaskar’s grit to Kapil Dev’s fearlessness, from Sachin Tendulkar’s genius to MS Dhoni’s calm mind—India’s cricketing journey has been shaped by icons who not only dominated the game but also left a lasting impact on the nation’s sporting culture. Each era has produced stars who inspired millions, broke records, and redefined greatness. Among them, Tendulkar has long been regarded as the gold standard of influence in Indian cricket. But as Virat Kohli steps away from Test cricket, the conversation about legacy takes a surprising turn.
Greg Chappell picks his most influential Indian cricketer
Former India coach and legendary Australian batter Greg Chappell has made a bold statement that’s catching attention across the cricketing world. In a powerful column for ESPNcricinfo, Chappell named Kohli—not Tendulkar—as the most influential Indian cricketer of all time. According to Chappell, Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket doesn’t just signal the end of an era—it brings closure to a phase of Indian cricket defined by intensity, dominance, and transformation.
“Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of a thunderous era – a reign forged in grit, fire, and audacity. It closes the chapter on the most transformative figure in Indian cricket since Sachin Tendulkar; perhaps Kohli even eclipses him in terms of cultural influence and psychological impact on India’s cricketing identity,” wrote Chappell.
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Why Chappell believes his pick had a greater impact than Sachin Tendulkar
While Tendulkar’s talent and records made him a living legend, Chappell argues that Kohli changed the very DNA of Indian cricket—especially in the longest format. He lauded Kohli’s mental preparation, foresight, and unwavering commitment to high standards. But it wasn’t just about batting. Chappell believes Kohli’s captaincy brought about a psychological shift in Indian cricket, particularly through his emphasis on fitness, aggression, and pace bowling.
“He trained not just his body but his imagination. Where others reacted, Kohli anticipated. He saw innings before they unfolded. He made fast bowling India’s weapon. He brought the yo-yo test into the cultural lexicon. He backed his bowlers, stood up to bullies, and never played for second place,” added Chappell.
Even while acknowledging the brilliance of both Tendulkar and Dhoni, Chappell makes it clear that Kohli’s legacy is defined by mindset change, not just match-winning ability.
“Yes, Tendulkar was a genius. Yes, Dhoni was a master tactician. But in the grand reckoning of Indian cricket history, Kohli has been its most influential figure,” explained Chappell.
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