Virat Kohli says Ajinkya Rahane will open with Shikhar Dhawan in West Indies

Virat Kohli’s press conference before the West Indies tour was one that fans were waiting for with bated breath. The first obvious reason was to listen to Kohli’s point of view regarding Kumble’s resignation and the other was to get an idea of who would make it to the playing XI.

This is a rather interesting time for Indian Cricket, as the entire focus now shifts to the 2019 World Cup, and how the Indian team setup should be for it. Anyone who can’t continue until 2019 should be dropped right away, so that the new comers are groomed for two years and then have the chance to flourish in the 2019 World Cup.

Also Read: Virat Kohli finally speaks after Anil Kumble’s resignation

With Rohit Sharma rested, the opening slot was up for grabs(for Pant), but Virat Kohli has gone ahead and said that Ajinkya Rahane would be opening the batting along with Dhawan. This closes the door for Pant but maybe during the course of the 5 games, Pant gets a chance in the middle order at the expense of Yuvraj Singh.

“We have Ajinkya who we had as a back-up opener in the Champions Trophy. He will start for sure with Shikhar Dhawan (in West Indies series). He is someone who has done well at the opener’s slot. He has batted in the middle order also but we see him to be more powerful in the opening slot, that is where he can play his game the best. So, during the course of all these five games, Ajinkya will open,” said Kohli.

Virat emphasised on the fact that the players are looking forward to the challenge and are not taking the 9th ranked West Indies side lightly.

“In international cricket, every game is an opportunity for the players to go out and do something. It improves your confidence whenever you come out at the international level and play. It is not about taking any opposition lightly. You have to come out and play good consistent cricket. It is another series we are looking to play good cricket. I am absolutely certain that the players are committed to playing their best,” said Kohli

“It is a lovely atmosphere to be a part of after a high-profile tournament like the Champions Trophy. It is great to be in a relaxing place. All the players are relaxed and are looking forward to some cricket in the West Indies where cricket is always enjoyed because of the way culture is here. It is pretty relaxed and you are at ease. As such, it is always a nice feeling coming here,” he added

India take on West Indies in the first game at the Queen’s park Oval today from 6:30 pm

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Utkarsh Bhatla