Published: Aug 10, 2015, 01:23 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 10, 2015, 01:23 PM (IST)
India play Sri Lanka at Galle as the first Test starts on Wednesday with Virat Kohli leading the side in his first full series, posts MS Dhoni’s retirement earlier this year during the tour of Australia. Speaking about Kohli’s game-plans, the Delhi cricketer’s coach, Rajkumar Sharma said, “He has been transparent and clear that all will get opportunities. He helps his teammates and gives them the full liberty and freedom. He is someone who takes the team along with him.” Kohli hates to lose and it is quite well known. Sharma was quoted as saying by DNA, “Yes, he believes in playing aggressive cricket. He is positive and wants to win matches for India. His aim is to totally go and win abroad. That is his priority.” READ: Virat Kohli’s trial by fire as Test captain begins with tour of Sri Lanka
“He doesn’t play to draw or to lose. He says that he will go with five bowlers means they will have to take 20 wickets and gives added responsibility to the batsman by making him fully aware that he has to be ready,” said Sharma. “From the beginning, he is like that. He is clear, doesn’t keeps things close to his heart. He is transparent and speaks whatever is there in his heart. He will do what he said and there is nothing to hide.” READ: Virat Kohli’s captaincy will steer a new beginning
Former India Under-19 coach, Lalchand Rajput, who had the opportunity of guiding Kohli during the tour of New Zealand in 2007 also spoke about the latter’s latest responsibility as the Test captain. “He is very clear in his mind. He prepares the players mentally and does not wait till the last minute to tell them. This also clearly shows his aggressive approach and how desperate he is to win. He gives a clear role to every player,” said Rajput. READ: Virat Kohli to make debut against Sri Lanka in Tests
“He is clear with his team combination, the five bowlers and six batsmen strategy. And, who is going to bat at No.3. Virat is different from other captains. He is upfront. This is what I like about him,” Rajput added.
