Brendon McCullum may be plotting England’s downfall against India in the upcoming ODI series, but the former New Zealand captain admits he still wants Virat Kohli to flourish.
Days after stepping down as England’s Test head coach following a four-year stint, McCullum offered a glowing tribute to the Indian batting great, describing him as one of cricket’s all-time greats.
The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed earlier this week that McCullum would continue in charge of the white-ball sides after England’s disappointing run in Tests, which included defeats in the Ashes and against New Zealand.
“That’s a difficult question because we’re talking about one of the game’s great players,” McCullum said.
“I had the privilege of sharing a dressing room with Virat for a year at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with him.”
McCullum and Kohli were teammates at Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the 2018 IPL season, when the former New Zealand skipper spent his final year in the tournament before retiring from all forms of cricket. Kohli captained the franchise, while McCullum featured in six matches and scored 127 runs.
The pair forged a strong bond during their time together, and McCullum’s admiration for Kohli has only grown over the years. Despite now occupying opposite camps in international cricket, the England coach had no hesitation in praising the former India captain.
“He is fiercely competitive and leaves absolutely nothing out on the field. He plays with his whole heart and is an extraordinary cricketer,” McCullum said.
“He has inspired an entire generation to fall in love with cricket and has transcended the sport. He has become a global superstar, someone recognised not just in cricket or in India, but across the world and in many other sports as well.”
