Ex-RCB star predicts Virat Kohli to play another 5-6 years for India after match-winning knock of 93 vs NZ

India star batter Virat Kohli continued his blistering form in ODIs with a match-winning knock of 93 against New Zealand in the first ODI. His inning proved to be crucial as the Men in Blue chased down the 301-run target with just six deliveries left to spare. Despite missing out on what would have been a well-deserved century, the 37-year-old was adjudged as the Player of the Match.

Kaif's massive claim on Virat

Following the match, former India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star Mohammad Kaif heaped praise on Virat and claimed that the latter can play another 5-6 years for India in ODIs if he continues batting in the same fashion. He further observed that the batter plays aggressively, but also shows patience as he builds his knock.

“Virat Kohli plays ODIs like he is playing the Delhi local league. Looks relaxed, jokes with mates, and always has a smile on his face. Takes a hard look at bowlers, plays aggressively but shows patience. If he continues like this, remains motivated, he can keep playing for India for the next 5-6 years,” Kaif posted on X.

Iyer's praise for Virat

Another person who had lavished praise on Virat after the match was his India teammate Shreyas Iyer. The two had formed a valiant 87-run partnership during the match against New Zealand with Iyer also playing an important knock of 49. The latter highlighted how Virat has consistently been scoring runs for the team and hailed the way he takes on the opposing bowlers.

"Whatever we talk about his innings, it would be less. We have been seeing it for so many years now; he has been doing it consistently. The way he rotates the strike, he takes on the bowlers. He basically walks the talk," Iyer said in a video shared by BCCI.

ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: ICC rejects recent Bangladesh's claims, confirms team can play T20 World Cup in India

Meanwhile, the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series between India and New Zealand will be held on January 14 at the Niranjan Shah stadium in Rajkot. The hosts will go on to seal the series if they emerge victorious in the upcoming match.