Ben Stokes showers praise on Virat Kohli: 'I have always admired even before I started playing against him'

Recently, Ben Stokes announced his shocking retirement from the 50-overs format, after the conclusion of the first ODI against South Africa. The cricketing fraternity poured in their wishes for the English all-rounder, who guided England to the 2019 World Cup title.

Indian batter Virat Kohli described Ben Stokes as the ‘most competitive’ bloke he has ever played cricket against. The Englishman responded to Kohli’s statements, and expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli.

Virat is going to go down as one of the greatest players: Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes stated that Virat Kohli will go down as one of the best players to play the game. The all-rounder cherishes every battle he has had with the Indian star.

“Look, Virat is going to go down as one of the greatest players to play the game in all three formats. He is a phenomenal player. And I have absolutely loved every time I have played against someone like him,” Stokes told Sky Sports.

Ben Stokes believes that the energy with which Kohli plays the game is quite commendable. After having shared the field with the Indian star for almost a decade, Stokes hopes to have exciting battles with the former Indian captain in the future.

“The energy and the commitment that he gives to the game is something I have always admired even before I started playing against him,” said Stokes.

“I am sure we will have some other battles on the field. It was nice to hear what he (Kohli) said,” he added.

Despite retiring from the 50-over format, Ben Stokes will continue to lead England in the red-ball format. He will also play a key role in England's ICC T20 World Cup campaign later this year.

Also Read: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement