World Cup 2019: Jofra Archer will be England's x-factor, feels Virat Kohli

Ahead of the mega ICC event, Indian skipper Virat Kohli praised his ‘very different’ skill-set and termed him England's ‘X-factor’

The fresh face in the English camp, Jofra Archer, has already created quite a stir in the cricketing fraternity with his selection in the World Cup Squad. The Barbados-born speedster has played only three ODIs but has been an asset on the T20 circuit with his death bowling, which is expected to pose problems for visiting sides. Ahead of the mega event, Indian skipper Virat Kohli praised his ‘very different’ skill-set and termed him England's ‘X-factor’. “He is probably going to be their X factor. He holds a skill-set that is very different from the rest. He can generate a lot of pace and he is just a great athlete. I am sure England is delighted to have him. It would be exciting to watch him in the World Cup,” Kohli said at the official ICC press conference for the captains. Archer, who had an impressive IPL for Rajasthan Royals, recently made his international debut and has world's No 1 batsman's wicket on his wish-list. “Jofra saying that is a big compliment because he himself is a world class bowler. The way he has come up in the last couple of years, I have seen him in the IPL, there is a good reason why he has been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like World Cup,” the Indian skipper added. Kohli also praised the talented Rashid Khan, saying that it was the first time during the recently concluded IPL that he could read the Afghan's deliveries, sitting in the RCB dug-out. “I have seen him for three years now and this year was the first time I didn't play against him. This was the first time that I could sit outside and predict 9 out of 10 balls that he bowled. Yes, it's the first time in three years and that's how good he has been,” Kohli complimented Rashid. “He (Rashid) has been outstanding with his skills sets and pace on the ball is the key. Variations are really subtle and he doesn't give you any time on the ball, let alone flight the ball and before you realise it hits the bat or through the pads and you get bowled or lbw or stuff like that,” said Kohli.