'Virat Kohli is the best batsman at the moment'

Bengaluru, July 29: Legendary Indian batsman GR Viswanath praised Test captain Virat Kohli for being "very positive" and declared him as the best batsman in world cricket, at the moment.

Viswanath is 'hurt' and 'sad'

Viswanath, who played 91 Tests for India, said he was amazed by the consistent performances of Kohli in all three forms of the game. ('Root is the best not Kohli')

"He (Kohli) is very very positive. As a batsman, one of the best in contemporary cricket. And he has proved time and again. It is not just he is playing, his consistency amazes me in all three formats," Viswanath told OneIndia on Friday (July 29).

"He doesn't play non-cricketing shots. Most of his shots, he plays according to the situation. In 20 or 50 over games, it is only in the last few overs that he goes for big shots. He is always under control of his innings. He is always thinking positive and his energy level is high. He looks very very bright and youngsters are following him," he added.

When queried whether Kohli is the best among the current batsmen, he said yes and also hailed England's Joe Root and Kane Williamson of New Zealand.

"In current generation, yes he is the best. Apart from him, there are quite a few (who are doing well). Joe Root of England, his consistency is terrific and then there is Kane Williamson from New Zealand. There are quite a few good batsmen in world cricket (apart from these 3) at the moment. But Kohli's consistency is much more than others," he said.

On the appointment of Anil Kumble as the head coach of Indian team, he said, "He is a very good choice. Being a captain of the side, mentor for couple of IPL teams and a good student of the game, he will be good for Indian cricket. He finished his career recently and knows the present game. He knows what is hapenning in world cricket. He has lot of plus points and it is a good sign for Indian cricket."

Kohli-led India are currently involved in a 4-Test series against the West Indies. They won the first game by an innings and 92 runs. Kohli hit his maiden double ton in the match.

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