Virat Kohli’s stature as one of the most revered cricketers transcends borders, and his immense popularity in Australia is a testament to his global appeal. Known for his consistent performances and competitive spirit, Kohli recently earned high praise from Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Watts, during the Indian team’s visit to Canberra.
Kohli’s Stellar Record in Australia
Kohli, a regular crowd favorite in Australia, continued to enhance his impressive record Down Under by scoring his seventh Test century on Australian soil during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His performances have consistently garnered admiration, not just from fans but also from rival players and dignitaries alike.
Currently, Kohli and his Indian teammates are in Canberra for a warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI. Ahead of the two-day game, the team was hosted at the Australian Parliament House, where they met Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other government officials.
Tim Watts’ Tribute to Kohli
Australian Assistant Minister Tim Watts shared his excitement on Instagram after meeting the Indian cricket icon. Posting a picture alongside Kohli, Watts expressed his admiration with a heartfelt caption.
“A bit of a thrill to meet the Australian and Indian players at the PM’s XI game at Parliament House tonight,” Watts began, before revealing a personal connection to Kohli’s IPL team, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
“I told @virat.kohli that I support @royalchallengers.bengaluru in the @iplt20 because it’s the only opportunity I get to legitimately barrack for him,” he wrote, adding that Kohli’s competitive nature reminds him of the quintessential Australian cricketer.
“Highest Praise for an International Cricketer”
Watts went on to offer a unique compliment, saying, “I give him the highest praise I can offer any international cricketer when I say that I’ve loved watching him play because he plays like an Australian. Just not when he’s playing AGAINST Australia, of course.”
This praise is particularly significant as Kohli has often been regarded as a fierce competitor, a trait that resonates with Australian cricket fans and their ethos.
Kohli’s Role in India’s Dominance
The Indian cricket star has been pivotal in the team’s quest for success in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In the second Test in Perth, Kohli played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten and guiding India to a resounding 295-run victory.
As India aim to win their third consecutive series in Australia and secure their spot in the ICC World Test Championship final, Kohli’s form will remain crucial.
India will next face the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra before traveling to Adelaide for the much-anticipated day-night pink-ball Test.
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