Hashim Amla’s Surprising Picks for Greatest Batters

In a recent interview on Star Sports, legendary South African cricketer Hashim Amla shared his picks for the top three greatest batters, notably excluding Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar. Amla’s choices included Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Sir Vivian Richards. This selection marks a shift from his earlier favorites, which featured Brian Lara, Steve Waugh, and Jacques Kallis. Amla explained that while growing up, these players were his idols, but his current list reflects a blend of contemporary and past cricketing excellence.

Amla’s Evolving Cricket Preferences

Amla’s admiration for Virat Kohli highlights the Indian cricketer’s impact on the modern game. Kohli’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure have earned him a spot among Amla’s top picks. AB de Villiers, known for his innovative batting style and versatility, represents the pinnacle of South African cricket talent. Sir Vivian Richards, a legend from the past, is celebrated for his aggressive batting approach that redefined the game during his era.

Steve Harmison on Virat Kohli’s Impact

Former England fast bowler Steve Harmison weighed in on Kohli’s influence in a separate discussion. Harmison suggested that if Kohli had been part of India’s final XI against England at Lord’s, the outcome might have been different. The match ended with India narrowly losing by 22 runs after a dramatic contest. Harmison praised Kohli as a ‘chase master,’ capable of turning games in India’s favor during crucial moments.

India vs. England: A Thrilling Contest

The match between India and England was a nail-biter, with both teams scoring 387 in their first innings. India’s bowlers performed admirably to dismiss England for 192 in their second innings, setting up a challenging chase. However, England’s bowlers, led by Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, dismantled India’s batting lineup on the final day. Despite resistance from Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja, India fell short of the target.

Implications for Indian Cricket

Harmison’s comments underscore the importance of belief and resilience in cricket. He emphasized that India needs to harness its strengths and develop a winning mindset to succeed in high-pressure situations. The absence of key players like Kohli can significantly impact the team’s performance in crucial matches.