Sourav Ganguly knows how momentous an occasion it would be for Virat Kohli when he steps out to play his 100th Test on Friday but the BCCI president and former national captain is confident that the batter will celebrate greater milestones in his career.
In a video message on BCCI’s Twitter handle, Sourav congratulated Kohli, saying it would be a dream come true moment for him when he takes the field against Sri Lanka in Mohali.
“It’s a huge landmark in Indian cricket, playing 100 Test matches is something that you dream of when you start playing cricket for your country. It’s a great moment for Virat, it’s momentous for Indian cricket,” Sourav said. “I have personally been in that 100 Test match situation and I realise, how momentous the occasion can be.
“Virat has had a great journey, exceptional achievements, starting 11 years ago. On behalf of the BCCI and also as a former captain who has played 100 Tests, I wish him all the best. He has had a fantastic career. He still has time to achieve greater milestones,” the BCCI boss said.
Head coach Rahul Dravid also joined in the celebrations.
“It’s an achievement Virat Kohli can be very proud of. He has had a lot of pressure, lot of expectations around him. He has always delivered. He averages over 50 in 100 Test matches, succeeded in various conditions all over the world. And only if you do that, can you actually achieve something like a 100 Test matches,” Dravid said.
“Nice for Indian cricket to have someone again who has played 100 Test matches. Truly well deserved! Someone who has had to work hard for it; it’s not come easy. But he has been willing to put in that time and effort,” he added.
Former batsman VVS Laxman expressed his delight at Kohli’s impending milestone and praised the “intensity” with which he plays the game.
“To represent India at the highest level is a matter of great pride for any cricketer, but to do that for 100 Tests is indeed an incredible achievement. Congratulations Virat, on a very very special achievement and I’m sure you will be mighty pleased and proud with the way you have played this great game,” Laxman said.
