Ravichandran Ashwin compares Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli

Ravichandran Ashwin has addressed the ongoing debate regarding the relative greatness of Indian cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. While noting that players from different generations should not be directly compared, Ashwin stated that he considers Tendulkar to be ahead of Kohli due to the specific era and conditions in which Tendulkar played.

Ashwin highlighted several technical differences in One Day International (ODI) cricket that impact statistical comparisons. He noted that during Tendulkar’s career, players used a single white ball that changed behavior as it aged, whereas modern cricket utilizes two new balls. Additionally, Ashwin pointed to changes in fielding restrictions and the fact that many of Tendulkar’s matches were played during daylight hours.

While acknowledging that Kohli would be a champion batter in any era, Ashwin cited Tendulkar’s role as the primary hope for Indian cricket and the difficult circumstances he faced as key factors. Ashwin also admitted his personal admiration for Tendulkar influences his perspective.