In a recent segment by Prime Video Sport Australia, several Australian cricketers were asked to choose an Indian player they would most want to see in the Australian XI.
The responses highlighted a blend of admiration for current star Virat Kohli and legendary Sachin Tendulkar, with each player bringing their unique perspective to the debate.
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Which Indian player do Nathan Lyon and Alex Carey prefer?
Nathan Lyon, Australia's veteran off-spinner, expressed his preference for Virat Kohli, stating, “For me, currently I have to go with Virat Kohli. Say no more.”
Similarly, Alex Carey, despite acknowledging Ravichandran Ashwin's prowess, chose Kohli, referring to him as "the King."
"Ashwin is good but we have got an off-spinner in Nathan Lyon. I am gonna say, in their prime, Virat Kohli. He is the King," said Carey.
Why did Usman Khawaja choose Sachin Tendulkar over Virat Kohli?
Usman Khawaja, while praising Kohli as "unbelievable," ultimately went with his childhood hero, Sachin Tendulkar.
Khawaja noted, “Virat is unbelievable but I grew up watching Sachin so there's probably a bit more nostalgia there. I will go with Sachin.”
Why did Steve Smith call Sachin Tendulkar a 'freak'?
Steve Smith also favoured Tendulkar, describing him as an “absolute freak.” Smith highlighted Tendulkar’s remarkable career achievements, including his 200 Test matches and numerous hundreds.
"Sachin Tendulkar. Obviously, absolute freak. 200 test matches, I think he played. Got so many hundreds. So, Sachin," said Smith.
Why did both Mitchell Starc and Marnus Labuschagne pick Sachin Tendulkar?
Mitchell Starc echoed a similar sentiment as Smith, saying, “You probably can't go past Sachin. Just from I think impact, as a player, as a name. I think you are probably picking him first most of the times.”
Marnus Labuschagne also chose the "little master", aligning with his teammates' admiration for the legendary batter, "It's gonna have to be little master Sachin."
Whom did Josh Hazlewood pick?
Josh Hazlewood, on the other hand, mentioned Indian speedster Jasprit Bumrah as his pick, saying, “Jasprit Bumrah, so then I can have a week off.”
What is the verdict?
Sachin Tendulkar won this particular battle as four Australian players backed the Indian batting legend while two of them picked Kohli. Hazlewood was the only one who opted to choose Bumrah.
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