Virat Kohli Gave Me Nightmares: James Anderson’s Explosive Revelation

England fast bowling legend James Anderson has called Virat Kohli the fiercest competitor he has ever bowled to in his long international career.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Anderson said that among the ‘Fab 4’ batters – Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson – it was the former India captain who gave him the toughest fight.

With both Kohli and Rohit Sharma having now retired from Test cricket, the Indian team is preparing to move into a new era in red-ball cricket.

Anderson, who has faced all four modern-day greats, believes that India’s next generation is ready to carry forward the legacy.

“Kohli Always Wanted A Battle”

Anderson shared that playing against Kohli felt like a personal battle every time. He admired the intensity and attitude Kohli brought to the field.

“The fiercest competitor out of those four is definitely Virat Kohli. The battles we had were incredible. He’s the kind of guy who stood his ground and loved the challenge,” Anderson said.

He also mentioned that Kohli never backed down and brought great energy to their on-field contests, making him one of the most exciting players to bowl to.

Backing India’s New Batting Core

Anderson praised Joe Root’s adaptability and technical changes to match different conditions, but pointed out that Kohli’s competitive mindset set him apart.

Now, with Kohli and Rohit moving on from Test cricket, Anderson believes it’s time for India’s new generation to take the spotlight.

He said that although it’s a big shift for India, the depth in their squad should help them manage the transition well.

Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and others are expected to take up more responsibility in the upcoming Test matches.