Gautam Gambhir Backs Virat Kohli to Deliver Big Against New Zealand
As India gears up to face New Zealand in a three-match Test series starting October 16 in Bengaluru, the spotlight is once again on Virat Kohli. The seasoned batter’s performance will be crucial for India’s hopes of extending their dominance at home. Despite being a consistent performer in the longer format, Kohli’s struggles to produce substantial innings frequently throughout the decade are well-documented. His form has fluctuated since achieving his 28th Test century against Australia in March last year, marking his first century in three years.
In this decade, Kohli has played 31 Tests, scoring 1,745 runs with an average of 33.55. His performance includes just two centuries and eight half-centuries across 54 innings, a stark contrast to his stellar run in the previous decade when he was one of the most prolific run-scorers in the world. This year, in particular, Kohli’s form has been modest, accumulating 157 runs in six innings over three Tests, with a highest score of 47. However, his contributions to the ongoing ICC World Test Championship have been more promising, with 468 runs in 10 innings at an average of 52.00, featuring a century and two fifties.
Ahead of the opening Test, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed confidence in Kohli’s abilities, labeling him a “world-class cricketer.” Gambhir recalled opening the batting with Kohli during his debut in Sri Lanka and remarked on the batter’s consistent hunger for runs over the years. He believes that Kohli’s determination remains as strong as ever, and his hunger to score runs will drive him to perform well not only against New Zealand but also in the upcoming tour to Australia. Kohli has an impressive record against New Zealand, having scored 866 runs in 11 Tests at an average of 45.57, with three centuries and as many fifties, including a top score of 211.
Gambhir also addressed the team’s strategy, explaining that the selection of players like Kuldeep Yadav, who was absent from the recent series against Bangladesh, is always based on what the team believes will yield the best results. According to him, the squad has an abundance of quality bowlers, including Kuldeep, and the decisions are made to ensure that the best possible combination is fielded for each match. The head coach acknowledged the challenge posed by New Zealand, emphasizing the importance of respecting their capabilities without fearing them. He noted that New Zealand is a professional team with several players capable of making significant contributions, making them a formidable opponent.
Discussing modern Test cricket, Gambhir highlighted the need for adaptability. He expressed that the Indian team aims to be versatile enough to score 400 runs in a day when needed or to bat for two days to secure a draw. This approach reflects the growth and adaptability required to succeed in contemporary Test cricket. The focus remains on playing hard but fair cricket while respecting all opponents, and Gambhir reiterated that the team’s current priority is the upcoming series against New Zealand rather than looking too far ahead to the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s next year, despite being atop the points table.
India has announced a 15-member squad for the series, with Rohit Sharma leading the side and Jasprit Bumrah named as the vice-captain. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and young talent, with notable names like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Sarfaraz Khan alongside veterans like Kohli and Rishabh Pant. India’s unbeaten streak at home stretches over 18 consecutive Test series wins since their last home series loss to England in 2012-13. Meanwhile, New Zealand will be looking to bounce back after a 2-0 series defeat to Sri Lanka, having struggled recently away from home. Their squad, led by Tim Southee, features a blend of seasoned players and emerging stars, aiming to pose a challenge to the formidable Indian side.
As the series unfolds, the anticipation is high for a competitive contest, with fans eagerly awaiting to see if Kohli can return to his best form and lead India to another series victory on home soil.