One of the best batters of all time, Virat Kohli is all set to play his five hundredth worldwide match as India tackle West Indies within the second Test of the sequence, beginning July 20. Kohli, who stands sixth within the checklist of most runs scored and behind solely Sachin Tendulkar in worldwide centuries, Kohli would be the fourth Indian to attain the milestone of 500 matches. Ahead of the historic match, former India stars like Aakash Chopra, Pragyan Ojha and Wasim Jaffer doffed their hats to Kohli, lauding his longevity within the sport that has seen him set up his stature as a real nice.

“Virat Kohli’s dedication for the game is very evident and in fact defines him. The way he has lived his life like a monk where it has only been about cricket. That is the reason he has reached where he is today and is a brand ambassador of the beautiful game. We are all thankful for what he has done for Indian cricket and for cricket in general,” Chopra stated as an skilled on Jio Cinema.

Ojha too praised Kohli, calling the achievement as ‘yet another feather within the cap’ second, “This is a very special achievement. Very few get to achieve this feat. I hope this acts as a motivation for him and he keeps playing good knocks for the country and continues with his good form.”

Jaffer additionally joined the bandwagon and lauded Kohli’s longevity as he stated, “Not everybody gets to play 500 matches and his longevity is praiseworthy – the way he has kept himself fit and consistent and continued playing well and scored 75 centuries in international cricket. It signifies his discipline, dedication, and determination. He has played 500 matches and there is a lot more cricket left in him. He is a role model for all cricketers across the world.”