Usain Bolt has soft spot for Virat Kohli, says he is standout ‘among current’ generation

The world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, has donned a new cap: ambassador for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup. His passion for cricket, particularly the T20 format, shines through in his recent statements.

Childhood love for Cricket and Wasim Akram

Bolt, a Jamaican who once aspired to be a fast bowler, credits his father for his love of cricket. He fondly remembers watching legends like Wasim Akram weave magic with the Inswinging Yorker. “Loved watching Akram growing up,” Usian Bolt told PTI.

T20 – Perfect Match for Modern Fan: Usain Bolt

Cricket’s shortest format holds a special place in Usain Bolt’s heart. He sees T20 as the ideal blend of strategy, power, and speed, “compressing the game” while still requiring skill and quick thinking. He believes this fast-paced format will continue to gain popularity worldwide, potentially surpassing Test cricket.

Global ambassador with Caribbean roots

Bolt’s appointment perfectly aligns with the T20 World Cup’s venture into the USA, a country with a growing cricket community.

He is confident that the American audience will embrace the sport, just as the Caribbean has embraced T20 cricket. “When you have presence in a country people start gravitating towards it,” he noted.

Virat Kohli: Standout among current players

While a self-proclaimed West Indies supporter (like his father), Bolt acknowledges his admiration for cricketing greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara. Among contemporary players, Virat Kohli receives his highest praise. “Virat Kohli is the standout one for sure,” Bolt declared.

Usain Bolt fond rivalry with Chris Gayle

A touch of humor emerged when Usain Bolt addressed the possibility of a cricketer challenging his sprinting prowess. He jokingly referred to his playful banter with close friend Chris Gayle, who apparently believes he can outrun Bolt in a 100-meter race. “We are looking to put out a race and see what happens,” Bolt said with a laugh.

Return to India on Horizon?

Usain Bolt, who last visited India in 2014, expressed his desire to return in the near future. With his infectious enthusiasm and love for the sport, his return would undoubtedly be a delight for Indian cricket fans.

Usain Bolt’s role as ambassador transcends mere promotion. He embodies the essence of T20 cricket – exciting, fast-paced, and full of energy. His passion for the sport, both as a spectator and an ambassador, is sure to inspire a new generation of cricket fans around the world.