Irfan Pathan, the former all-rounder pace bowler, believes the change in management will not be a major issue, especially for Test skipper Virat Kohli. Indian cricket is going through a transition phase, with ex-captain Rahul Dravid now stepping into the head coach role following Ravi Shastri’s exit post the disappointing 2021 T20 World Cup where India was ousted from the group stage itself.
The cricketer-turner-commentator Irfan Pathan made the remarks on Star Sports’ show Follow the Blues ahead of India’s Test series opener against New Zealand. Irfan Pathan highlighted how Rahul Dravid’s approach of flowing into the system, rather than changing it, is likely to make the transition easier.
Irfan Pathan: New Coach Rahul Dravid Likes To Come Into The System And Doesn’t Change It Much
While Irfan Pathan admits that Rahul Dravid is expected to chip in with his tactical ploys, his interruption will not cause a disturbance. Having played under the 48-year-old’s captaincy, the left-hander Irfan Pathan pointed out how he never used to be disruptive while at the helm of the team.
Irfan Pathan predicts that the partnership between Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid will thrive on communication. He also noted that youngsters will also be given significant roles alongside senior campaigners on the side.
Irfan Pathan said: “This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don’t see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn’t change the system much.”
“One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team.”
The upcoming two-Test series between India and New Zealand will be Rahul Dravid’s first red-ball assignment as head coach. While Virat Kohli will not feature in the opening contest, he is scheduled to return for the subsequent Test in Mumbai.
Ajinkya Rahane Leading Team India In The Kanpur Test Versus New Zealand
After their one-sided white-ball series, the two cricketing nations will lock horns in the longer format. New Zealand, which is the top-ranked team in the ICC rankings in Test matches, will face an imposing challenge in the Indian conditions. The highly anticipated first Test will begin on Thursday, November 25. The Green Park in Kanpur will host the exciting fixture.
On Thursday, India reached 154/4 at the end of the second session on the first day of the first Test of the two-match series against New Zealand at Green Park, Kanpur. After opting to bat first, India lost opener Mayank Agarwal (13) before the hosts reached 82/1 at lunch, courtesy of a 61-run stand between Cheteshwar Pujara (26) and Shubman Gill (52).
In the second session, India lost Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, and skipper Ajinkya Rahane (35). Shreyas Iyer (17*) and Ravindra Jadeja (6*) were holding the fort for the home side at the break. On the other hand, New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson (3/38) once again troubled the Indian batters with his pace.