Kohli is "absolute best" batter in world, says Ponting

Ricky Ponting hails Virat Kohli as "absolute best" batter; praises Indian bowlers for their strong impact in World Cup. Kohli equalled Sachin's record of 49 ODI centuries in 175 innings less. Ponting predicts Kohli to play with more freedom now, as Indian bowlers have been the best in the tournament.

Virat Kohli is the "absolute best" batter in the world on the basis of his overall record and he did not need to equal legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record number of ODI hundreds to earn that tag, feels former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.

Kohli equalled Tendulkar's record of 49 ODI centuries with a brilliant 101 not out against South Africa on his 35th birthday in a World Cup match on Sunday. The century only further strengthened Kohli's case of being one of the greatest players of modern times.

"There is no doubt he is the absolute best and I have said that for a long time,” Ponting said on the ICC website.

“He didn’t need to equal Sachin’s record, he doesn’t need to break the record.”

"If you look at his overall batting record it is incredible," said Ponting, himself a legendary batter.

The century against South Africa was Kohli's second of the tournament and fourth overall in all 50-over World Cups. The 35-year-old now has a total of 543 runs at this edition of the World Cup at an imposing average of 108.60.

Ponting eluded to the fact that Kohli reached the feat of 49th ODI ton in 175 innings less than Tendulkar.