Indomitable Virat Kohli?
By Sudhansu R Das
Undoubtedly he has the most enviable record in one-day cricket. The world’s best one-day pace bowler who can strike at will and change the course of the game. Malinga does not look like a cricketer but a cave man running after a deer with a spear in hand. He bowls as if he is throwing a javelin. More than his ball it is his chubby face nestled in black, brown and golden curl of hairs flowing down below his neck.
His joyous smile with full shining teeth range after he takes wicket with his vicious yorker, creates fear in the hearts of batsmen. Many time batsmen do not understand from which side his yorker comes. The same Malinga on 28th of February 2012 on Bellerive Oval ground in Australia was hit for 90 runs from his eight overs. Virat Kohli almost made a Baigan Bharta out of Malinga as he hit him consecutively for a six, four fours and two in a single over. The agony on Malinga’s face was visible. Worse was the condition of Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene who was on the verge of crying. Such things happen in cricket as it is the game of glorious uncertainties. India has completed 321 run chase in 36.4 overs which is incredible.
“This was one of the best ODI cricket I have been a part of. Overall, it was a fantastic performance,” said Dhoni after the match. India is back in the game from an irreparable situation. Thanks to Virat Kohli’s 133 of 86 balls which has put India on the driver’s seat. Kohli was indomitable on the day as he executed his onside shots, cover drives and flicks to midwicket with raw power and accuracy. It was a great team effort to chase down the huge 321 target, said Kohli.
India has woken up from deep slumber as Kohli has lit the spirit again. It is not known when Sehwag – the living bomb on one day-cricket will explode. In fact Sehwag is freewheeling type batsman and should not be trapped in the unnecessary responsibility of the captain. Both Veeru and Mahi must bury their minor differences and make Indian team steady for the next matches. Indian team management must shun meetings, seminars, analysis and lethargy and hunt for talent across the country for second line up. India is too vast and cricket talents are there everywhere. India desperately needs quality fast bowlers and spinners who can be consistent. The cash rich BCCI must cut their administrative expenses and use it judiciously for developing cricket infrastructures.?
