Former India captain and maverick batter, Virat Kohli has made a timely return to the India Test squad in South Africa, just ahead of the much-anticipated first Test match against the host nation, scheduled to start on December 26. Kohli had briefly left the squad in, having initially traveled to South Africa with the team. His presence at the training sessions in Centurion, observed on Sunday, December 24, has been a boost for the team.
During the training, Kohli displayed intense focus and determination. He spent significant time padding up and facing both the net bowlers and India's pace attack. His interactions with head coach Rahul Dravid, who was meticulously overseeing the net session, were a focal point, indicating strategic discussions in preparation for the upcoming series. India is set to play 2 Tests in South Africa, with the first match commencing at Centurion.
Kohli's practice session was notable for his deliberate emphasis on leaving deliveries outside the off-stump, a technique critical for success in the bouncy and pace-favoring conditions typical of South African pitches. Once settled, Kohli transitioned to playing more assertive shots, demonstrating his renowned batting prowess. He confidently stepped down to the pacers and played expansive strokes, showcasing his readiness for the challenges ahead.
Furthermore, Kohli was seen engaging in a detailed conversation with fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, as captured in a video shared by Star Sports. Captain Rohit Sharma also spent time discussing strategies with Prasidh, who has been diligently preparing in the training sessions.
Kohli's return comes after missing the intra-squad practice match last week due to his brief return to India. The Indian team, meanwhile, has been rigorously training at the Tuks Oval in Pretoria, simulating match conditions and scenarios. In an attempt to maintain a strategic edge, the team's training sessions were conducted behind closed doors.
Kohli's form leading into this series has been nothing short of sensational, especially highlighted by his performance in the ODI World Cup 2023. The former captain amassed an impressive 765 runs in 11 matches during the tournament, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most ODI hundreds.
Both Kohli and Rohit Sharma took extended breaks post-World Cup, missing the white-ball leg of the South Africa tour. Suryakumar Yadav and KL Rahul stepped up as captains for the T20Is and ODIs respectively, with Rahul leading India to a 2-1 victory in the ODI series.
As the Test series approaches, all eyes will be on Kohli and his impact on the team's performance in these crucial matches.
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