We always look up to footballers for their fitness and discipline, says Virat Kohli

Cricket has reigned supreme as India’s most loved and followed sport for decades now. But slowly and steadily, with major triumphs in other events, sports entertainment has become a more level playing field, especially with football. Having already raised the bar for his teammates with his strict fitness ethics, the football-loving Indian skipper expressed how cricketers have plenty to take away from their contemporaries in the 90-minute game. 

“I think the only people who can be compared to an extent in terms of endurance are fast bowlers. Cricket is not a sport which requires amazing physical endurance. Football is fast and played within 90 minutes where you have to be absolutely fit to take control of the situation. In cricket, the fitness level requirement is not as high (as football). But if you strive to be as fit as footballers, then you do things at a different level in cricket,” Kohli said. 

“I would say Cristiano is the most complete player that I have seen. Messi is a freak, absolute natural talent, and his ability is second to none. (Ronaldo) The Phenomenon, on the other hand, was something else. His place is special, but if I had to take only one in my team who will give energy and intensity, it’s Cristiano,” he said.

Already the Indian skipper is involved in football in some capacity as the co-owner of the ISL franchise, FC Goa. He hopes to take on an even bigger role in the development of the sport when he calls time on his cricketing career.