Virat Kohli is one of the fittest athlete in the Indian team at the moment but the star cricketer finds Sachin Tendulkar the epitome of fitness and hopes to play with same vigour when he reaches the veteran batsman's current age of 40, says a report in The Times Of India.
"Hope I can play for the country for such a long span as Sachin (Tendulkar) has and remain as fit as he is. His fitness level is amazing. If I can achieve 60-70 per cent of what he has achieved so far in his career, I will be more than happy," said Kohli.
"His hardwork is very inspiring for the younger generation," he told reporters at a function where his endorsement deal with the leading sportswear brand, Adidas was announced on Thursday.
According to a report in Deccan Chronicle, replying to a query, Kohli said South African speedsters -- Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel -- were the two most dangerous bowlers he has faced in his international career so far. On his preparation for the upcoming limited-overs series against Australia, Kohli said the hosts would not be taking their opposition lightly and remained upbeat about winning.
"The Australia series is going to be competitive. Even without injured Michael Clarke, they are a strong side. But I am confidenfor his t about winning the series," the 24-year-old said.
Kohli said that the high-profile series might see some verbal duels between the players of the two sides as the young Indians are capable of giving it back to the Aussies in equal measure. "We will reply from the bat first. We will play competitive cricket. The current lot doesn't like to listen too much. We will definitely get back at them," he insisted.
According to a news in India Today website, Virat Kohli is uncomfortable with the headlines that talk of him leaving legends like Tendulkar and MS Dhoni behind in terms of endorsement earnings per brand. He says he almost can't believe he's being compared to his idol.
"It feels surreal to be compared to the man I've always idolised. The man I've grown up watching, trying to emulate. My goal is to match such legends on the field and not off it."
Asked if such numbers increase the pressure on him, he says, "Obviously expectations do rise. But I don't think about it too much. It feels nice. But I don't take pressure from this. I'm happy that what I'm doing on the field is being appreciated."