Pakistan mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed showered praise on Virat Kohli after receiving a pat on the back from the veteran batter. Ahmed impressed one and all in the high-octane clash against India, returning with figures of 1-28 in his quota of 10 overs.

The 26-year-old spinner got rid of in-form Shubman Gill with a peach of a delivery. After India registered a comprehensive six-wicket win, Kohli was seen appreciating Ahmed for his good performance. Ahmed lauded Kohli for his humility and called him his childhood hero.

Ahmed wrote on his social media account while sharing a photo with Virat Kohli, “Bowling to my childhood hero Virat Kohli. Grateful for his appreciation—his greatness as a cricketer is only matched by his humility as a person. A true inspiration on and off the field! “

On the other hand, Kohli scored a majestic knock of 100 runs off 111 balls and took India over the line in the run-chase of 242. 

Kohli will play his 300th ODI against New Zealand and Kiwis all-rounder Glenn Phillips showered praise on the veteran batter for his immense contribution to the game.

Phillips said in the pre-match press conference, “Obviously, he’s an incredible player. And to know him a little bit personally myself is awesome. He’s obviously an incredibly hard worker, and what he’s done for the sport, but also for Indian cricket and also people coming through the game as youngsters now, is absolutely fantastic,

“I think his legacy going forward will be remembered for a long time, inspiring a lot of people. And 300 ODIs – that’s a big feat, especially in today’s age, where one-day cricket isn’t played as often as it used to be. So, it’s really cool for him.”

India will next take on New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on 2nd March.