Rohit Sharma praised Virat Kohli
Photo : AP
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Rohit Sharma revealed why Virat Kohli batted at number three
- Kohli batted at the position after eight years
- Rohit was all praise for Kohli's actions
The Indian cricket team left the world stunned on Thursday (October 17) as star batter Virat Kohli changed his batting position and walked out to bat at number three during the second day of play in the Bengaluru Test against Zealand.
For those unversed, the hosts were hit with a major blow before the start of the match as star batter Shubman Gill was ruled out due to a neck strain. Gill has India's designated number three in the longest format since the West Indies tour last year.
Gill's injury meant that the spot was left vacant as Sarfaraz Khan replaced him in the XI, who is used to playing in middle order. The 26-year-old walked out to bat at number four after Kohli came out at number three after a gap of eight years.
Rohit Sharma Explains Virat Kohli's Selfless Gesture For Team
The decision to change Kohli's position has divided opinions but Indian captain Rohit revealed it was Kohli himself, who took the responsiblity to take the number three spot to ensure that the team can allow the likes of Sarfaraz, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant to bat in their natural positons.
While many stated that Rahul was the natural pick for the number three spot having opened the innings in the post, Rohit claimed the team do not want to change his position to ensure he gets a long run a the number six spot.
“Yes, he is a local boy. So he has to bat at 3? (laughs). After a long time, KL Rahul has found a spot at No. 6. We want to make him bat there. The experienced players are the ones who have to take up more responsibility. This time, it was Virat. He was the one who was ready to do that,” Rohit said in the press conference after the day’s play.
"We asked him whether he could bat at No. 3. Sarfaraz, we also wanted to give him the position that he usually bats -- 4, 5 and 6. We didn't want to change Rishabh and KL. Hence, Sarfaraz went at No. 4 and Virat batted at No. 3. It's a good sign. Players coming up and taking responsibility and owning up the challenge. It's a good sign,” said Rohit in a press conference after the end of play.
India had a day to forget as they were bowled out for 46. While Rohit made four runs, each of Kohli, Rahul, and Sarfaraz was dismissed for a duck.
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