Shikhar or Rahul: Virat leaves selection of openers to his gut feeling

Team India will be looking forward to improving their Test records on the English soil.

By : ABP News Bureau | Updated at : 31 Jul 2018 07:11 PM (IST)

shikhar or rahul virat leaves selection of openers to his gut feeling Shikhar or Rahul: Virat leaves selection of openers to his gut feeling

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, on Tuesday, interacted with the media personnel ahead of first England vs India Test match in Birmingham on August 1. He not only clarified that the team is confident to face the challenge in English conditions but also ensured that he is not here to prove anything to anyone but to take Team India forward.

Kohli made a big remark on the selection of the opening pair when they take the field against Joe Root & Co. on Wednesday. He said,

“It all depends on gut feeling. You go ahead with what the management feels. We take a decision and then don't look back at them, whether they come off or not. In Test cricket, team balance is important, and we'll discuss it today.”

Team India will be looking forward to improving their Test records on the English soil. They last won a Test series in 2007 under Dravid’s captaincy. After 11 years, a young pack is all set to accept the English challenge.

“Team’s preparation has been quite well so far. Players played in ODI had time before and those who joined us later for the tests, they too had proper time to gear up for the challenge. Guys are in a good frame of mind. They are confident about the series which is going to be a longer one,” said Virat.

#TeamIndia Captain Virat Kohli addresses the media on the eve of the 1st Test against England at Edgbatson. #ENGvIND
Posted by Indian Cricket Team on Tuesday, 31 July 2018

Speaking about the mindset of the bowling unit, Kohli stated that their experience and maturity will do all the talking during the game.

“Our bowling attack has turned mature over the years. They have gained experience playing across the world and understanding the condition. They are pretty comfortable with their games. Our bowlers have come a long way from the last time we toured all these countries and they are more confident unit now. They know how to bowl in partnerships. They understood all these things over the years and we are happy to have a depth in our bowling unit.”

In his bowling depth, India captain @imVkohli trusts. Listen in! #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/VSShvDmBmS
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 31, 2018

The Indian skipper also spoke how they are going to be considered during the series. He asserted that the entire unit is focusing on the game and personally, he aims to contribute to the team and take it forward.

“Whether you are a favourite or an underdog, you still need to go out there and do well on the field. It’s a balance that is required and we have played enough cricketer to understand these are things which go on outside. You need professionalism more than feeling like an underdog or starting the series as favourites,” said Kohli

“I’m not in a frame of mind to prove myself in any country. I only want to perform for my team and take the Indian team forward,” he added.