Allan Donald’s admiration for Virat Kohli has once again caught attention, this time during an SA20 match between the Paarl Royals and Pretoria Capitals.
The legendary South African pacer recalled an old conversation with Hashim Amla that left his former teammate stunned, as Donald compared Kohli’s hunger and drive to that of the great Sachin Tendulkar.
Donald, one of South Africa’s most respected cricketing figures, has never been shy in praising players who embody relentless passion and work ethic.
Kohli, in his eyes, represents the modern standard of excellence, a player whose determination continues to inspire teammates and rivals alike.
Allan Donald reveals Hashim Amla’s disbelief over Virat Kohli comparison
But when Donald once shared that opinion with Amla, even the elegant South African batter was taken aback.
“I said it a few years ago, when I was in a room with Hashim Amla, and I mentioned that if there was one batter who could even get close to Sachin, it would be Virat.
He probably won’t get there, but Hash looked at me and said, ‘How can you say that?’ It’s just his hunger. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a player with that level of drive,” Donald said.
He added: “I’ve got massive respect for him. I often talk about him in dressing rooms, especially about being a champion trainer. There’s no one who trains as hard as Virat. He’s a machine.”
Donald’s remarks underline the consistency and mental fortitude that have defined Kohli’s career. His tireless preparation, intense mindset, and ability to thrive under pressure have earned him recognition from legends across generations.
Even among peers from the golden era of South African cricket, Kohli’s reputation as a relentless competitor remains unmatched.
Donald admits he misses watching Kohli in Tests
Donald also opened up about missing Kohli’s presence in the longest format of the game. “I actually miss him. I miss watching him in Test cricket.
“It feels a bit like AB; you almost think he’s retired too early. But there’s no doubt we’ll see him again in white ball cricket, especially at the World Cup, very soon,” he concluded.
The sentiment echoed the thoughts of many cricket fans who have felt Kohli’s reduced Test appearances in recent years.
Known for his fiery intensity and unmatched fitness standards, Kohli’s absence from red-ball contests has left a visible void in the sport.
Yet, as Donald hinted, the Indian great still has much to offer in the white ball arena, where his passion, precision, and leadership continue to shape cricket’s modern era.
For Amla and Donald, both masters of their craft, Kohli’s drive stands as a reminder of what separates great players from legends.
His name, often mentioned alongside Tendulkar’s, symbolizes cricket’s enduring pursuit of perfection, one built not just on talent but on an unrelenting will to be better every single day.
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