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Kohli’s 74‑run, 51‑ball Knock Praised as ‘Worth a Century’ by Ravi Shastri

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Kohli’s 74‑run, 51‑ball Knock Praised as ‘Worth a Century’ by Ravi Shastri
Photo: Virat Kohli in action. (FILE photo)

In the first ODI in Auckland, Virat Kohli dominated New Zealand’s bowlers, scoring 74 runs off 51 balls on a pitch that offered tennis‑ball bounce. Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri praised the innings, saying, ‘A 70 in conditions like these is worth a hundred. He never got ahead of himself throughout the innings. And when he stays in fourth gear like this, then God help you.’ Shastri added that Kohli’s performance relieved pressure on Shubman Gill, who was able to get off strike quickly and keep bowlers on their toes. He also noted that Kohli’s aggression, even after being dismissed at 38, would inspire younger players.

Meanwhile, Delhi head coach Vijay Dahiya has expressed a strong desire to include Kohli in the team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, which starts on December 14. After a draw against Services, Dahiya told reporters at the Air Force Complex Ground in Palam, ‘If he wants to play, I would love to have him in the dressing room! I will chew his brains out to tell these guys about hard work, work ethic, and what it takes to reach where he is today.’

The Indian Express previously reported that former India captain Rohit Sharma had informed the Mumbai Cricket Association of his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy following India’s three‑match ODI series against Sri Lanka, scheduled from December 13 to 19.

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