Cricket Legend Wesley Hall Showers Praise on Virat Kohli, Talks T20 vs Tests

Legendary West Indies fast bowler Wesley Hall, during a visit to the Indian cricket team's training session, lauded Indian superstar Virat Kohli, placing him among the all-time greats of the game.

The 86-year-old Hall, known for his fiery pace bowling alongside Charlie Griffith in the 60s, acknowledged the challenges of the modern cricketing landscape. He admitted that while the financial allure of T20 franchise leagues like the IPL is hard to resist for players, it can negatively impact Test cricket, the format he dominated in his era.

High Praise for Kohli

Hall, a guest at the Kensington Oval, interacted with the Indian team and presented his autobiography to Kohli and head coach Rahul Dravid. He humbly complimented Kohli, stating, "You have come to practice and you have to see an old man," before adding, "I have seen a lot of great players and you are one of them. I have followed your career and I hope you play for India for many more years."

T20 Boom vs Test Woes

While acknowledging the flourishing state of T20 cricket in the West Indies, Hall expressed concern about the decline of Test cricket in the region. He emphasized the need for administrators to find solutions to prevent a mass exodus of players from the longer format.

"Well, I would say that if your date is today, I'm not concerned. But if you told me two years ago, I was very concerned. And that's what happens," he said regarding the state of Test cricket in the West Indies.

Hall highlighted the financial disparity between Test cricket and T20 leagues, stating, "If I am from the proletariat, I don't have any money and somebody offered me a million dollars for four years, well then I could not really refuse it." He believes a solution needs to be found to prevent this constant drain on Test talent.

Evolution of the Game

Hall commented on the changing dynamics of the game, expressing his reservations about the increased batsman-friendliness, particularly in T20 cricket. He questioned the limitations imposed on bowlers, like restricting them to four overs, while batsmen can play the entire innings.

Love for Pace Bowling

A tall fast bowler himself at 6'5", Hall is a strong advocate for genuine pace. He complimented India's current pace attack, impressed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, and remarked on the depth of talent compared to the West Indies' post-golden era struggles.

Highlighting the importance of height for a fast bowler, Hall said, "I like a paceman that is six foot. When you put a ball in the slip corner, like how Big Bird Joel Garner used to do it, and (Curtly) Ambrose. These fellows, they bowl and they're able to get that bounce."

Wesley Hall's visit served as a reminder of the rich cricketing history and his insightful observations on the sport's evolution provide valuable perspective for fans and players alike.

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