West Indies vs India 2023: Virat Kohli’s best is yet to come, says Ahmed Shehzad

Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad reckons Virat Kohli’s best is yet to come. Kohli, who had to go through a rough patch in the last couple of years, has been batting at his best in the recent past. The talisman scored 639 runs in 14 matches of IPL 2023 for Royal Challengers Bangalore at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate of 139.82.

However, Kohli could not deliver the goods in the all-important World Test Championship final against Australia as he returned with scores of 14 and 49 in the two innings as India suffered a 209-run loss.

Ahmed Shehzad revealed Virat Kohli always helped him during his career and he shares a lot of respect for him.

“We share a mutual respect for each other. Whenever I need any advice regarding cricket, he has been kind (to help me out). I really respect him as a player,” said Shehzad on Nadir Ali’s podcast.

The former Pakistan opener hailed Virat Kohli for transforming his cricketing career by working hard on his fitness and becoming a top batter in all three forms of the game.

“He has changed himself dramatically. When he burst onto the scene during the U-19 World Cup, he was a bit chubby. But the way he has transformed himself, not just from the cricketing aspect is commendable,” Shehzad added.

Meanwhile, Kohli also took Indian cricket to new heights in Test cricket. India got positive results in overseas conditions under the leadership of Virat Kohli as he got the best out of the fast bowlers.

“He took India to new heights in Test cricket. I haven’t seen someone who has adapted so quickly. I feel his best is yet to come,” said Shehzad.

Since making his India debut in 2008, Kohli has scored 8,479 runs in Tests, 12,898 runs in ODIs, and 4,008 runs in T20Is and he will look to continue the good show for the national team. India will tour West Indies for two Test matches, three ODIs and five T20Is.