VVS Laxman reckons Indian captain Virat Kohli is as inspirational as once legendary Sachin Tendulkar was despite having contrary traits in their personalities. The former middle-order batsman thinks Virat will remain a role model for current as well as future generations to follow. 

"There’s a legacy which Virat Kohli will leave," Laxman was quoted saying at an event, "Sachin was an inspiration for an entire generation including players like me. He took a lot of pride playing for the country, scored tons of runs and consistently winning matches for over 24 years is never easy."

"Kohli is very similar to Sachin. He’s a trend setter, a role model to this generation of cricketers and not just limited to Indian. Budding cricketers look to idolise him."

"Both of them are little different as personalities are concerned – Sachin is calmer and reserved whereas Kohli is more aggressive and emotional."

One of Kohli's attributes that Laxman admires is the fitness revolution that he has brought into Indian cricket. If MS Dhoni gave this system calmness under pressure, Virat has ensured that young players of our nation have genuine athleticism about them. 

"Kohli has focused a lot on an important aspect which is critical which is on fitness. When a fit team takes on an opposition, it always carries an edge. It used to be the same for Australia under Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting."

"Kohli sets an example and it rubs on all the players. India will probably be the fittest team in the world currently. The fielding level has gone really high. All this will help the team do well in pressure situations," he added. 

In line with which, Laxman emphasized that this Virat Kohli led Indian side has what it takes to win the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales. 

"India is a complete side," he said, "It’s not only the batting department. What’s exciting is their bowling department, especially the fast bowlers which is a matter of pride. You have got resources which can not only restrict the flow of runs but pick wickets and challenge the batsmen, making them look uncomfortable at the crease."

"Indian team is peaking at the right time. The win in Australia Tests followed by ODIs and the way they played in New Zealand shows that this team has got the potential to be world beaters."

"If they win the World Cup, they would have ticked all the boxes. At the moment they have done well in Test cricket and in ODI tournaments as well. Winning World Cup will be the icing on the cake," Laxman concluded. 

(Inputs from PTI)