New Delhi: Former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has expressed confidence that Virat Kohli will continue to play at the highest level for another two to three years. Sidhu’s remarks come after Kohli’s stunning comeback to form, highlighted by his match-winning, unbeaten century against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Kohli’s brilliant knock, which helped India secure a six-wicket victory over their archrivals, was a defining moment in the tournament, ensuring India’s place in the semifinals. Sidhu believes that Kohli’s recent form shows he is not only back to his best but is set to continue his success for the foreseeable future.
A True Champion’s Character
Sidhu praised Kohli for his resilience, calling him a “once-in-a-generation” cricketer. “Character is not made in a crisis, it is exhibited. This is a man with pedigree, with passion,” Sidhu said in a conversation on JioHotstar. He believes Kohli will play for another two to three years and score another 10 to 15 hundreds.
Sidhu emphasized the importance of how Kohli handled adversity, pointing to his ability to rise when the pressure was on. “The ultimate litmus test for anyone is how they go through adverse times, how they embrace adversity. Kohli did just that, and I can confidently say he is going to achieve more,” Sidhu added.
Kohli’s Comeback After a Challenging Phase
Kohli’s journey has been one of highs and lows. Since 2020, his Test performances came under scrutiny after consecutive series losses to Australia and New Zealand. During that period, doubts about his place in the red-ball team surfaced.
However, the last six months have seen a remarkable turnaround. Sidhu highlighted that Kohli “chose his moment” and made it count when it mattered most. “When he scored runs against Pakistan, people won’t forget that knock for the next 10 years,” Sidhu noted.
Virat Kohli: The ‘Kohinoor’ of Cricket
Sidhu also referred to Kohli as a “Kohinoor,” or a gem, saying that the cricketer’s performances inspire the next generation. “These are the people who’ve inspired the kid in the street. For the game to grow, you need role models who are above everything. Virat Kohli is a once-in-a-generation cricketer,” Sidhu said.
The Mastery of Kohli’s Batting
During his innings, Kohli was seen driving the ball with the elegance and precision that fans associate with his prime. Sidhu praised his trademark cover drive, calling it a sign that Kohli was indeed back to his best. “When he gets his head on top of the ball and drives beautifully, you know he’s back,” Sidhu said.
Kohli’s consistency under pressure is unmatched. Sidhu pointed to his remarkable record in successful run chases. “99 innings, an average of 89.6 in successful chases – that means he thrives under pressure. And the tougher it gets, the better he performs. That’s the hallmark of a great cricketer.”
Team Spirit: A True Collective Effort
As India edged closer to victory, with Kohli just four runs away from his century, the camera caught Rohit Sharma’s beaming face. Sharma, in a playful moment, motioned for Kohli to finish the game with a six. Sidhu highlighted this moment as a testament to the camaraderie within the Indian team.
“No one can whistle a symphony; it takes an orchestra to play it,” Sidhu said. “When the team takes pride in a fellow countryman’s performance, that is a very good sign.”
With his undefeated century, Kohli not only reaffirmed his status as one of cricket’s all-time greats but also demonstrated that he has more to offer in the years to come. As Sidhu put it, “Virat is not just playing for today; he’s playing for the next two to three years.”
The cricket world is watching closely, and Kohli’s fans are hoping for many more iconic moments from the man who continues to define excellence in the sport.
