Hyderabad: After winning the Test series against West Indies here at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Sunday, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that a three-day finish was not part of the plan; however, it helped to understand how to create pressure and intensity with the ball.
“It is good to have so many guys bowling so well. We have four bowlers who can pick wickets; anyone can step in at any time for anyone. It’s a great luxury to have from team’s point of view,” Kohli said.
“In batting, learning from the last tour, we want to improve collectively but we want to keep bowling as a major strength. In order for us to feel like we have a chance to win, these guys are taking responsibility well.”
Speaking on Shardul Thakur ‘s debut, Kohli said, “Shardul showed his fitness level. He picked wickets, not just completed over. I think it was the stand out performance of his career.”
Kohli also lauded the youngsters and said, “We wanted them to play with a lot of freedom, which they did. Rishabh was really fearless. Both those guys were really good and got a chance to understand how to play at this level. They have solidified their place in the team. Getting the man of the series regardless of where we play, it is an outstanding achievement. I am really happy these guys grabbed their chances.”
Talking about the upcoming crucial Test series against Australia, Kohli said, “Four tests in Australia can be brutal as the ball doesn’t do much like in England. Umesh is right up there to feature in Australia.”
Prithvi Shaw’s performance earned him the Man of the Series, while Umesh Yadav became the Man of the Match.
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]