NEW DELHI: Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli, at this point in his career, is more concerned with winning games for India than with stats, which could be dangerous because huge scores would come to him naturally with this mindset, according to Mike Hesson, the former Director of Cricket for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Hesson was speaking on Jio Cinema on Wednesday, as India looks to maintain their dominance at home, starting with the opening Test of a three-match series against New Zealand in Bengaluru.
Hesson had a very interesting take about Virat’s Test form, saying, “I think Virat Kohli is at that stage in his career where he just wants to try and win games for India. And I think that’s a dangerous stage for other sides, because if he is doing that rather than focusing on numbers, the big scores will come naturally.”
He said that the ability to “hold a tempo” and “counter-attack” in Australia would be big and if Virat bats, he “would not let the game drift” as he can easily counter-attack after taking his time to settle.
“The ability to hold a tempo in Australia is so important–being able to counter-attack and knowing the right moments to do so. As mentioned, from 30 to 60 overs is a key phase. If Kohli is batting at that point, he won’t let the game drift. It is about finding gaps, hitting gaps, getting ones and twos, and then, if they try and attack him, then he can counterattack,” Hesson said.
Hesson commented on Virat’s lackluster series against Bangladesh, saying that the former captain appeared to be in good form despite not making many runs.
“He looked like he was moving well and getting into good positions. After playing in New Zealand, heading to Australia will suit him, as he thrives in those conditions,” Hesson said.