Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi reacted to Virat Kohli’s absence from the last three tests against Australia. He said it will be tougher for India to win without their skipper especially in the testing Australian conditions. India lost the first test against Adelaide as Kohli lost three tests as captain for the first time in his career. All three losses have come this year. India lost two against New Zealand before the pandemic and then the first test against Australia.
Shahid Afridi Lauds Australian Bowlers
Meanwhile, Afridi took to Twitter to share his opinion on the first test between India and Australia. He lauded the Aussie pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for their relentless bowling against the Indians. He then predicted that it will be difficult for India without Virat Kohli even they have enough talent in reserves.
“Brilliant display by Cummins and Hazelwood today, really enjoyed top-quality Test match fast bowling after long time. Indian batting is still capable of fighting back but it will be now tougher without Kohli,” Afridi tweeted.
Brilliant display by Cummins and Hazelwood today, really enjoyed top-quality Test match fast bowling after long time. Indian batting is still capable of fighting back but it will be now tougher without Kohli.
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) December 19, 2020
Cummins and Hazlewood wrapped up the Indian batting line-up within 20 overs of their innings. None of the Indian batsmen, including skipper Virat Kohli, could score in double digits.
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The Australian batsmen then chased down the target of 90 runs within 21 overs. Joe Burns scored an unbeaten 51 and also hit the winning runs. He added a 70-run stand with Matthew Wade for the first wicket. With this, Australia now lead the series 1-0.
The second test starts from December 26 in Melbourne. The Indian team management have been sweating over finding the ideal replacement for Virat Kohli. They are also thinking over a couple of more changes with the likes of Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha failing with the bat in both innings.
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