What happened to 3 players once rated bigger than Kohli

Cricket has always been a sport that produces rising stars who capture the imagination of fans. Some live up to the hype and go on to become global icons, while others fade away despite early promise. In India, Virat Kohli’s name has been a constant in world cricket for over a decade. With his consistency, fitness, and hunger for runs, he has cemented his place as one of the greatest of the modern era.

Yet, there was a time when a few players across the world were compared to him and even tipped to have brighter futures. Here, let us have a look at three players who were once considered bigger than Kohli, and see where they are now.

3 players who were considered bigger than Kohli and where they are now

Ahmed Shehzad (Pakistan)

Former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad was one of the brightest young batting prospects of his time and was often compared to Virat Kohli for his style and flair. He came to the reckoning for his aggressive stroke play at the top of the order, and was part of Pakistan’s 2009 ICC World Twenty20-winning squad. He went on to make history by becoming the first Pakistani player to score a century in all three formats of the game.

His hundred in the 2014 T20 World Cup remains a highlight of his career. At one stage, Shehzad looked destined to be Pakistan’s batting superstar, but his inconsistency, fitness issues, and off-field controversies stalled his progress. While Kohli surged ahead to become an all-time great, Shehzad faded into the background, playing in domestic and franchise leagues.