Sports
‘He’s at Par with Virat Kohli, But…’: Former Cricketer Explains the ‘Elite Mentality’ That Still Sets the Indian Great Apart
A leading Indian batter has drawn comparisons with Virat Kohli for his remarkable consistency, but a former cricketer believes one defining quality continues to separate the modern star from the batting legend.
Comparisons with Virat Kohli are never made lightly in Indian cricket, but a former cricketer has now claimed that one of India’s leading batters is already performing at a level comparable to the batting icon. However, he believes there is still one crucial difference that separates the two — an “elite mentality.”
The remark has reignited discussions among cricket fans about what truly defines greatness. While the unnamed Indian star has impressed with consistent performances across formats, the former player argued that matching Kohli statistically is only one part of the equation.
Numbers Tell One Story, Mentality Another
According to the former cricketer, the current Indian batter possesses the talent, technique, and consistency needed to be mentioned alongside Virat Kohli. Yet, he stressed that Kohli’s greatest strength has always been his unwavering hunger to dominate every match and perform under the toughest pressure.
ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Sends Strong Fitness Warning Ahead of England ODIs… India Captain Begins Batting Grind After Family Break
Over more than a decade, Kohli has built a reputation for chasing perfection, setting exceptionally high standards, and delivering when the stakes are at their highest. That relentless drive, often described as an elite sporting mindset, has become one of his defining characteristics.
The former player suggested that while today’s generation has immense ability, developing the same level of mental toughness and competitive intensity takes years of sustained excellence.
Why Virat Kohli Remains the Benchmark
Few cricketers in the modern era have influenced the game like Virat Kohli. From record-breaking centuries to memorable run chases, the former India captain has consistently demonstrated the ability to thrive under pressure.

His commitment to fitness, preparation, and maintaining high performance standards has inspired a new generation of Indian cricketers. For many experts, these qualities elevate him beyond mere statistics and place him among the game’s all-time greats.
A Bright Future for India’s Next Generation
The comparison itself highlights the remarkable rise of India’s new batting stars. Being mentioned alongside Virat Kohli is widely viewed as recognition of exceptional talent and consistent performances.
However, cricket experts believe that true greatness is measured not only by runs and records but also by longevity, leadership, resilience, and the ability to deliver in defining moments.
As India’s young stars continue to evolve, fans will closely watch whether they can develop the same relentless mindset that made Virat Kohli one of the most respected cricketers in the world.
