Virat Kohli and Roger Federer named in TIME’s 100 most influential people

NEW DELHI: Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has been named as one of TIME magazine's 100 most influential people of 2018 following a stellar season last year in which he had amassed 2818 runs across all formats and slammed 11 centuries.

Kohli's tally was the third most ever after Kumar Sangakkara and Ricky Ponting. He led India to the final of the Champions Trophy, ODI series wins over England, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand and Test series wins over Bangladesh, Australia and Sri Lanka (twice).

"TIME's annual list of the world's most influential people is a designation of individuals whose time, in our estimation, is now," the magazine said.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar wrote Kohli's profile in the magazine saying the 29-year-old's "hunger for runs and consistency" has been remarkable and has become the "hallmark of his game." 

Tendulkar recalls the Under-19 World Cup in 2008 where he had watched Kohli lead India. Tendulkar said the U-19 World Cup was very important for India, as it would define the next bunch of youngsters who would go on to represent the nation.

"That was the first time I watched this young, passionate player lead India. Today, Virat Kohli is a household name and a champion in cricket. Even back then, his hunger for runs and consistency was remarkable, something that has become the hallmark of his game," Tendulkar said of Kohli.

"Virat took the criticism he faced during a disappointing West Indies series and returned home with a goal: to improve not only his technique, but also his fitness level. He's never looked back," Tendulkar said.