'Real gold stuff from Pujara', says Viv Richards after India's series win
Legendary West Indies batsman Vivian Richards has hailed the Indian team after their historic win in Australia, praising Kohli and Co. for India's first series victory Down Under.
In a congratulatory video message, Richards, who had himself led West Indies to a 3-1 series win in Australia back in 1988, said:
"Let me take this opportunity to thank Virat Kohli and your team, for such a magnificent performance Down Under. It was always going to be tough, but you guys came out smelling sweet".
Showering special praise on Cheteshwar Pujara, who ended as the highest run-getter in the series with three centuries, Richards added: "And to Pujara, (it was) just beautiful batsmanship. I just felt real gold stuff".
The Virat Kohli-led team recently completed a 2-1 win in Australia, India's first series victory in the country, ending a 71-year drought. The hosts had managed to level the series at Perth, but after India secured a win in Melbourne and ended the Sydney Test with a draw, the long wait for the tourists finally ended.
A special mention was given to Team India coach Ravi Shastri by Richards, whose playing career coincided with the Windies batsman.
"Well done to everyone, magnificent performance again. Congratulations to the Indian team and to my good mate Ravi (Shastri). Well done again!"
Pujara, batting for India at No.3, finished the series with 521 runs, averaging 74.43. Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball, picking up 21 wickets in the four games, at par with Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon.
The three-match ODI series follows the Tests, with the first game on January 12.