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Former India coach Gary Kirsten has praised skipper Virat Kohli for his leadership since taking over from MS Dhoni, saying that Kohli has an 'inspirational' effect on the players he leads.
Kohli took over as Test captain when Dhoni retired two years ago, and Kirsten, who coached the side from 2008 to 2011 including a World Cup title, feels the batsman has done an excellent job of combining his batting with skippering.
Kirsten told PTI: "Virat has been a great captain for India. His talent was always unquestionable. He has led by example with his on-field performances.
"His leadership at the Test level has worked really well for the national team. The best part about Virat is that he looks so inspirational as a leader in the manner he walks in the field."
Kirsten said he could not compare Kohli's tenure with that of Dhoni's, as Dhoni was the skipper for so long, and also in all three formats. Dhoni is still the limited-overs captain.
The former Proteas opener added: "Dhoni is a very good captain. I had thoroughly enjoyed working with Dhoni during my tenure as India coach.
"But since I have not watched the Indian team play all formats on a consistent basis, it will not be fair on me to compare Virat and Dhoni's consistency levels."
Kohli has captained the side in 14 Tests so far, winning seven, drawing two and losing five. Dhoni was skipper for 60 Tests, winning 27, drawing 18, losing 15.
