Ambati Rayudu Hails Virat Kohli As 'The Greatest of All Time' After Semifinal Win Over Australia
Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu showered praise on Virat Kohli after his match-winning innings in the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia in Dubai.
Speaking on JioHotstar, Rayudu lauded Kohli's skill and composure under pressure, calling him a "once-in-a-generation cricketer" and the "greatest of all time" in ODI cricket. He said,
"I think his skill against leg spin and left-arm spin, along with his ability to rotate the strike through mid-wicket and square leg, was exceptional. On a pitch that was turning and stopping, he made it look effortless, which speaks volumes about his skill."
He further emphasized Kohli's game awareness and ability to adapt to match situations.
Rayudu added,
"Never doubt his ability to hit fours or sixes--it's about composure and understanding what is needed on the day, then executing it to perfection."
Kohli was instrumental in India's four-wicket victory, scoring a composed 84 off 98 deliveries, including five boundaries. His innings guided India to a spot in the final, delivering a special moment for fans across the country.
Rayudu remarked, summing up Kohli's impact on Indian cricket said,
"He is a once-in-a-generation cricketer, the greatest of all time in this format. It's a special night for him, his family, and 150 crore Indians who are blessed to witness his greatness."
Australia was skittled out for 264 in 49.3 overs.
Shami (3/48) was the top bowler for India, while Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) and Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) also unleashed a spin web. Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya took a wicket each.
During the run chase, India lost skipper Rohit Sharma (28 in 29 balls, with three fours and a six) and Shubman Gill (8) early and were reduced to 43/2. From then on, a 91-run partnership between Virat and Shreyas Iyer (45 in 62 balls, with three fours) brought India back into the game. Virat also had a brief 44-run stand with Axar Patel (27 in 30 balls, with a four and six) and a 47-run stand with KL Rahul (42* in 34 balls, with two fours and two sixes).
Hardik delivered a brief and fiery cameo, scoring 28 in 24 balls, with a four and three sixes, helping India seal a win. India finished at 267/6 in 48.1 overs.
Nathan Ellis (2/48) and Adam Zampa (2/60) were the top bowlers for Australia.
ANI