'Kohli reminds me of myself' - Viv Richards

Virat Kohli has received a compliment from Viv Richards, the former West Indies batsman, as he said that the Indian batsman reminds him of himself when he goes out to bat. Richards, largely acknowledged as the game's most destructive batsman, was recently appointed by the Delhi Daredevils as team ambassador.

"I love watching Virat Kohli bat. He looks to me like an individual of my own heart. I love his aggression, and [he has] serious passion that I used to have. He reminds me of myself," Richards told PTI. "He is an individual who doesn't back off from confrontation; someone who can stand his ground under pressure. I love that as you can't teach these instinctive aspects."

Richards also praised Kohli's attitude towards fielding, and how he looks to be positive. "Just like me, he loves the ball to come to him. He wants to dive, stop the runs. He is a livewire unlike some fielders, who would just dig a hole and dive in it rather than dive to stop the ball."

Richards, however, believes that with Sachin Tendulkar continuing to play beyond 40, the country's expectations on Kohli will be high. "I believe till Tendulkar is there, you need to give him respect," Richards said. "Obviously, once Sachin retires, you can bank on Kohli as he is young enough and has a lot of time on his side. He will only improve and continue to get better."