(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara talked about the possibility of Virat Kohli breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries.
Kohli recently broke Tendulkar’s record of most ODI hundreds (49), leaving behind the latter with his ton against New Zealand in the semi-final of the 2023 World Cup.
In total, the 35-year-old has smashed 80 international hundreds with 50 of those coming in the ODI format only. He has hit 29 and a solitary century in Tests and T20Is respectively.
Lara took Kohli’s age into account while debating if he can go past Tendulkar’s greatest record, stating it is still a very tough task for the Delhi-born.
“How old is Kohli now? 35, right? He has 80 but still needs 20. If he scores five centuries every year he’d need four more years to equal Tendulkar. Kohli will be 39 then. Tough job, very tough job,” Lara said as quoted to Anandabazar Patrika.
“Can’t say with certainty, no one can. Those saying Kohli will break Tendulkar’s 100-centuries record won’t be taking cricketing logic into account. 20 centuries seem a long way away. Most cricketers can’t score that in their entire career. I won’t be adventurous and say Kohli will do it. Age doesn’t stop for anyone. Kohli will break many more records but 100 centuries seems the most difficult one,” he added.
While the legendary West Indies batter asserted on the difficulty of Kohli moving ahead of 100 international tons, Lara also added that only he can come close to breaking this record.
“Only Kohli can come close. I’m a big fan of his discipline and dedication. The way he prepares for a match by giving it his all… how can you not be his fan. My best wishes are with him. I’d be very happy if he could score 100 centuries like Tendulkar. Sachin was a dear friend and like I said before, I’m a big fan of Kohli,” Lara concluded