Kohli: No tinkering at opening time now
VIRAT KOHLI revealed Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will resume their successful opening partnership when India take on England in three one-day internationals in Pune this week.
India tinkered at the top of the order in the five T20s although Dhawan was overlooked entirely, with Rohit and Kohli excelling in the decider as the hosts claimed a 3-2 series victory.
Kohli, though, plans to drop back down to No.3 in the 50-over format, reuniting Rohit and Dhawan in a partnership that has averaged 46.21, with four century stands, in 32 innings in the last three years.
‘When it comes to one-day cricket I don’t think there are any issues or doubts over Rohit or Shikhar opening together and they’ve been amazing for us in the past few years,’ said Kohli.
Kohli sparkled with 80 not out from 52 balls in Saturday’s final T20 and has signalled his intention to open for Royal Challengers Bangalore in this year’s Indian Premier League.
The India captain insists he is not eyeing the position for this year’s T20 World Cup but reasoned the gesture would open up a middle-order slot.
‘It’s not a guarantee this is going to be continued in future but I’m going to open in the IPL to keep all options open. I have batted at four and three – I want to go back to understanding (being) an opener,’ he said.
■ LANCASHIRE have announced the signing of India batsman Shreyas Iyer for the 2021 Royal London Cup.
The 26-year-old, who has played 21 one-day internationals and 29 T20 matches for India, will arrive at Old Trafford in July.