Team India’s assistant coach, Abhishek Nayar, believes that senior batter Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma can regain their form by spending time at the crease and facing 25-30 balls. According to Nayar, once a player settles in, their game significantly improves.
Both Kohli and Rohit struggled during the three-match Test series at home against New Zealand, which India lost 3-0. Kohli managed 93 runs across six innings, including a century in the second innings of the first Test in Perth, but has otherwise struggled for consistency.
Rohit, on the other hand, scored just 91 runs, with a highest score of 10 in three innings. Speaking on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia in Melbourne on Thursday, December 26, Nayar acknowledged that both players need to spend more time in the middle. As quoted by ESPNcricinfo, he said:
“I always believe that it’s about confidence and a start. Once a player gets a start, their game looks different. So, I think Virat and Rohit are both such players. If they can play 25-30 balls, then you will see the same Virat and Rohit that you see earlier.”
“But, this is a game of confidence. So, no matter how much you practice, no matter how much you talk, in the end, when you get into the match, it’s very important to play 20-25-30 balls.”
"Have a look where Virat walks. Virat's walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever."
– Ricky Ponting #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zm4rjG4X9A
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024
“Our bowlers showed great character to persevere”- Nayar on Konstas’ debut in 4th BGT Test
Australia started strong on Day 1 at the MCG, with debutant Sam Konstas scoring 60 off 65 balls, including six fours and two sixes. The 19-year-old attacked Jasprit Bumrah, helping the Aussies dominate the opening session. Nayar acknowledged Konstas’ pressure but praised India’s bowlers for their comeback.
“Well, I think a lot of credit to, you know, the way Sam played. I felt, you know, the intent that he showed in the first four sort of put us in the back foot. I felt it took a lot of character for our bowlers to stick in there.”
“It wasn’t the best, I mean, the easiest conditions to bowl, we felt the conditions are good to bat on and at times like that, sometimes it’s important to stick to your guns, stick to the plans.”
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
