'One of Tendulkar's greatest strengths was his longevity.'
Former Australian batsman Michael Hussey feels that India’s batting sensation Virat Kohli can emulate the feats of legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.
However, Hussey was also quick to point it out that while Kohli has the talent it is yet to be proven if he has the stamina of the Little Master.
"One of Tendulkar's greatest strengths was his longevity and if Kohli can stay fit, he could be well on his way to emulate Tendulkar as a player," Hussey said from India, where he is commentating on the Indian Premier League.
Kohli has taken his splendid form to new heights in the ongoing IPL as the Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper hit his fourth century in the tournament by cracking a 47-ball century in a rain-shortened game against Kings XI Punjab on Wednesday.
Kohli's stupendous form has taken him to 4,002 career runs in the IPL, making him top run-getter in the tournament’s history.
He also now has 2,042 runs at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, the first man to score 2,000 runs at a single venue in T20s.
"He has evolved into an amazing player," added Hussey, who said AB de Villiers and Steve Smith were his contemporaries.
"These three are all probably at a stage now where they know their game inside and out and they stick to it as it has given them so much success over the years.
"I simply love watching them bat."
While Kohli is still long way behind Tendulkar in Test cricket, the 27-year old is expected to break several records in ODIs.
"It is embarrassing to be honest. It is not fair on him (Tendulkar)," Kohli said recently.
"He can't be compared to anyone. You are talking about a batsman of a different caliber.
"I have strengthened my game whereas he was born to achieve all that he has. I have been playing well for two years while he served the nation with grace for 24 years.
He is two levels above anyone else in this generation of batsmen. I am individually inspired by him though I would like to create my own path."
