'It looks like an easy format' - Former India cricketer defends Virat Kohli amid Sanjay Manjrekar's comment

A former India opener fires a subtle rebuke at Sanjay Manjrekar’s claim that ODIs are the easiest format, highlighting Virat Kohli’s prolific run in the IND vs NZ 2026 ODIs.

Virat Kohli (Image Credit: BCCI)

Virat Kohli’s performances in the ongoing India vs New Zealand ODI series have once again placed him at the center of cricketing discussion, not just for his runs but for what they represent in the modern 50-over game. As India continue to assert control in the series, Kohli’s composed approach at the crease has reinforced his reputation as one of the most reliable batters in the format.

A former India cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh added a fresh layer to the conversation by suggesting that the format often appears “easy” only when players of Kohli’s calibre are at their best. According to him, sustained excellence in ODIs demands technical discipline, decision-making, and fitness, qualities that cannot be replicated by most batters, regardless of conditions.

"Some say he has picked the easiest format to continue playing. That's not at all the case. The format looks easy only because of how Virat Kohli performs. Because he literally scores 50s and 100s for fun, it looks like an easy format from the outside. Everyone plays this format, yet no one is able to produce like Virat Kohli," said Sadagoppan Ramesh on his YouTube channel.

Read also: Analysis | Which WPL team packs more strength? Squad analysis of every WPL team before WPL 2026

Why Virat Kohli’s ODI success still a topic of discussion?

Despite playing for more than 15 years and scoring more than 25000 runs across formats, Virat Kohli's skills and success as still a topic of discussion for many cricketers. Recently, Sanjay Manjrekar bashed Kohli for leaving Test cricket and choosing ODIs as it is an 'easy format'. However, that's not the chase. ODI cricket is not as easy as Kohli has made it look.

Moreover, he has almost 10k runs in Tests and is a legendary batter in the T20Is. Hence, questioning Kohli's talent, skills, and intentions are purely waste of time. He has proved enough with his bat and on the field for over a decade now. The fans are happy to watch him bat and engage everyone during the fielding. It will be interesting to watch him perform in the ODI World Cup 2027.

Where to watch IND vs NZ matches?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs New Zealand matches from January 11 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: Former India bowler blames Test series loss against SA on Kohli-Rohit transition, makes eye-opening claim

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