Former India captain and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly has backed Virat Kohli to solve his own problem. Ganguly feels that Kohli does not need to prove anything as he is the best player. In addition, he does not want Indian captain Rohit Sharma to be judged on the basis of his Test slump.
"Kohli is one of the best batsmen in the world. He is capable and will solve his own problem. He has done so well all through his career, has scored 81 centuries (in international cricket) and does not have to prove anything," Ganguly told News18.
"Entire India is talking about this but he is the best player (to work it out). He knows what needs to be done. He will solve his own problem."
While Kohli departed after scoring 22 runs from 38 balls, Rohit got India off to a blazing start with 41 runs from 36 balls. He shared a 69-run partnership with Shubman Gill who went on to score an unbeaten century. Ganguly lauded Rohit and India's batting depth ahead of the clash against Pakistan in Dubai on February 23.
"Rohit is one of the best batsmen in the world. Nobody should judge him based on his Test performances (alone). India have a strong batting line-up. We have batters till number 8 which is our positive point," the 52-year-old said.
No Bumrah, so Shami to lead
Ganguly also backed Mohammed Shami to lead the pack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah who was ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a lower back injury.
"The wicket of Dubai is different and teams aren’t expected to score huge totals on it. With Bumrah not part of the squad, Mohammed Shami will have to lead the attack and he’s a fine fast bowler. Being in the rhythm will be key for Shami," he said.
Ganguly satisfied with team combination
Ganguly is happy with the team combination of going with three spinners and two fast bowlers apart from Hardik Pandya. He also backed head coach Gautam Gambhir as he has backed KL Rahul ahead of Rishabh Pant.
"Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul both are fine players and capable of making the squad. The Indian coach has decided the team combination, and he will pick right players as per the wicket of Dubai," he said.
India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their previous clash whereas Pakistan lost to New Zealand by 60 runs. A win against Pakistan will almost confirm India's spot in the semifinals.