Virat Kohli Likely To Open In the Upcoming T20 Contest Against West Indies
Dec 31, 2018 at 1:56 PM
The Story:
India is preparing for a change of format after winning the 5-match ODI series by a 3-1 margin. The one-off T20I series against hosts will commence tomorrow at Kingston, Jamaica. West Indies looks fully pumped for the contest in the shortest format of the game in which they are the current champions.
Chris Gayle recalled to add muscle:
Despite the series loss, it’s an acceptable fact that West Indies will start as the favourites in upcoming match. They showed glimpses of their capabilities in the 50 overs series as well but India overpowered them with the help of combined efforts.
However, when it comes to the T20 format, Windies certainly know every trick of the trade and will test through all means.
As an tactical move to strengthen the prospects of earning an revenge for the loss in the ODIs, West Indies has also recalled star striker Chris Gayle to their side. He will be seen in the Caribbean Maroons after an absence of almost 15 months after a struggle with injuries and poor form.
Kohli plays a smart move:
While West Indies are trying to be fully prepared for the challenge, the Indian camp is also ready to pull off some great moves.
The biggest news or rather say speculation from the Indian camp is that skipper Virat Kohli may open tomorrow. There can be two reasons behind Kohli’s motivation to promote himself in the batting order.
Firstly, the intention of creating some room for Rishabh Pant in the middle order who has been for the chance to play in the Caribbean. Secondly, it may be a decision to form a more aggressive opening pair. Ajinkya Rahane, who opened with Shikhar Dhawan during the ODIs, isn’t known for attacking form of cricket. Therefore, Kohli must have come up with the thought of opening the inning himself.
The decision looks perfect given his previous track record as an opener in the IPL for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore.