What Virat Kohli said about comeback in Test format?
On Sunday, the Indian team won the first ODI against South Africa by 17 runs in a thrilling encounter. Virat Kohli played a key role in this victory.
Team India scored 349 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs. Virat Kohli scored 135 runs in this match.
For some time now, there has been speculation that Virat Kohli may return to the Test format.
Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said, "The way Virat is playing, there should be no question about his future."
Indeed, Virat Kohli has retired from T20 and Test cricket and plays ODI cricket.
He was declared Man of the Match on Sunday. When asked after the match if he was playing in one format of cricket, would this continue?
Playing in one format of the game: Kohli
Virat Kohli said, "I am just playing in one format of the game."
When asked about his performance, he said, "If you've played 300 ODIs, and that's how much cricket you've played over the last 15-16 years, and as I said, if you're consistent in the game and know that during practice, you play for an hour and a half without a break, you're hitting the ball, then you know your reflexes are intact, you have the ability to bat for a long time."
Kohli said further, "Yes, I understand there was a slight dip in form...you watch the game and try to regain form...but as long as you're playing well...I think with the experience I have right now...it's important for me to stay physically fit and mentally prepared and stay enthusiastic about the game."
Regarding Virat Kohli's performance, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen wrote on Instagram, "I don't always believe everything I read in the media or social media. But if there's even half the truth to the fact that both Virat and Rohit are considering playing Test cricket again, it should be taken very, very seriously. The very existence of Test cricket is a matter of great debate right now, and if the game's biggest stars want to play it again, they should."