Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his confidence in Virat Kohli’s ability to counter England’s Bazball approach during the upcoming five-match Test series, set to kick off in Hyderabad on January 25. Gavaskar, renowned for his cricketing insights, highlighted Kohli’s impressive track record against England in home Tests.
“If They Have Bazball, We Have Viratball”
Gavaskar pointed out that Virat Kohli, the current captain of the Indian Test team, boasts a remarkable average of over 50 against England in home Test matches. With a double hundred and two centuries against the English side, Kohli has been a consistent performer in the longest format, particularly on home soil. His recent form, including becoming the leading run-scorer for India in the South Africa series, adds to the anticipation surrounding his role in the upcoming series.
In a candid statement, Gavaskar quipped, “Agar unke bass Bazball hai to hamare pass Viratball hai (if they have Bazball, we have Viratball).” This declaration underscores Gavaskar’s confidence in Kohli’s ability to counter England’s Bazball strategy with his formidable batting skills.
England’s Bazball Approach and Spin-Friendly Conditions
Gavaskar acknowledged that England’s Bazball approach could have its merits, particularly with shorter boundaries and well-built bats allowing mishits to sail for sixes. However, he backed India’s spinners to come out on top in the end. The former captain noted that while Bazball may work, the Indian spinners, accustomed to T20 cricket, possess the skills to adapt and dominate in challenging conditions.
According to Gavaskar, the opening Test in Hyderabad will set the tone for the entire series. He emphasized the significance of understanding the pitch conditions, which offer pace and bounce, providing a good test for England’s Bazball strategy against India’s spinners.
In the 2020-21 home Test series against England, Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel played pivotal roles, bagging 32 and 27 wickets, respectively. India emerged victorious in that series with a 3-1 scoreline. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the battle between Bazball and Viratball, the first Test in Hyderabad promises to be a crucial encounter shaping the narrative of the series ahead.
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