KL Rahul backs Virat Kohli ahead of Bangladesh Tests
Despite returning to his absolute best in the limited-overs format, former India skipper Virat Kohli is yet to fire in Test cricket. His last ton in the longest format came in 2019 against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens and with that, the 34-year-old would hope to turn back the clock and play a similar kind of innings against Bangladesh in the upcoming two-match Test series.
Ahead of the series, stand-in skipper KL Rahul defended Kohli and suggested the Indian team has not played much Test cricket this year and therefore, Kohli’s performances can’t be judged. Backing his former captain, the 30-year-old mentioned that Kohli’s mindset never changes.
“We haven’t really played too much Test cricket for you to pass that statement. He’s been in good form; he’s done really well for us in T20 cricket. Recently, he got that hundred against Bangladesh here. Obviously, he will take some confidence into the Test matches as well,” Rahul said in the press conference.
“He’s been around for so long. He is such an experienced player; he knows what to do. His mindset and attitude has always remained the same. The passion he has for the game, the commitment he gives for the team, has been on show for everyone to see. He’s a great player. He has always found ways to get runs and I am sure he will do that again,” he added.
We hope Rohit can come back for the second Test: KL Rahul
Following an injury on his left thumb during India’s second ODI against Bangladesh, designated skipper Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the first Test of the series. In the meantime, Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran has been called up to replace the opener. Rahul mentioned Rohit’s importance and said that he hopes that the latter will come back for the second Test in Dhaka.
“Obviously, Rohit Sharma is a very important player for us. He’s very experienced and is the captain. When a captain gets injured, it’s something that the team will really miss. Fingers crossed, we hope he can come back for the second Test,” Rahul said.
