It is not every day that a team goes on to win a Test by an innings after conceding 477 in the first innings. This was that sort of day for India where they seemed absolutely unstoppable. Powered by a magical spell from the ever hard-working Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli’s men bulldozed England at Chennai on the fifth day to win the Anthony De Mello trophy 4-0.
As India completed a rout over England, skipper Virat Kohli was on cloud nine as he praised his unit for a power packed performance. Kohli led India like a genius as his tactical moves and bowling changes yielded phenomenal results. From the batting front as well, he was India’s mainstay with over 650 runs to his credit. It was no surprise he was named the Man of the Series for his performance.
“Couldn’t have asked anything more and especially after winning the series 3-0 and performing like this,” said a delighted Kohli. “It’s an evidence of the character of this side and what the guys prepare like for a Test match, playing for the country. They take a lot of pride and it was evident in the way we batted and bowled. We wanted the youngsters to do well. KL had a good domestic season but didn’t have a great outing and then comes and almost gets a double century. Karun didn’t have two good Tests and then does this.”
Praising Ravindra Jadeja for his efforts in both innings, Kohli said it was spectacular to win the game after conceding 477 in the first innings. “It’s always tricky when you have scored 477 and then concede a lead of 281. Mentally and psychologically, it is always a dent. We knew that. We realized that once we got a couple of wickets, it will be a downward slide. They don’t want to be in a position after getting so many runs and be in a losing position. Jadeja did the job in both the innings. Hit right areas and made it uncomfortable for the batsmen. Intensity was top class.
“Toss and pitches were out of the equation. We were up against big totals and we won by an innings. Doesn’t happen too often in Tests. We work hard every day and believe in us. We don’t care about what’s happening outside; what matters is what each one of us thinks about the other. There’s lot of respect and friendship in that dressing room and it’s evident on the field. Nobody is playing for himself,” Kohli added.
Stressing on the contribution from lower-order batsmen, Kohli said:
“The lower order has deflated the opposition, scoring 200+ three times, and their hard work in the nets showed. Our pace was quicker than theirs, even the consistency was better, and it was very proud moment for me as an Indian captain, seeing the fast bowlers stepping it on. Kudos to the hard work they have put in the past few months.”