Former South African cricketer Jacques Kallis made a bold claim ahead of the test series between India and South Africa. He believes that if the Rohit Sharma-led team has to win the series, then Virat Kohli will need to put up a good series.
India will take on South Africa in the two-match Test series, starting on December 26. They have not won a series on South African soil and it will be a great opportunity to make history, especially with the talent they have in the team.
As the series begins, the focus will be on Virat Kohli and it is fair to say that he will be the most crucial player for the Indian team. The batsman will hold the key to the team’s success in both games and it is fair to say that if he shines, he can help his team make history.
Virat Kohli also has a great Test record in South Africa. In the 14 innings that he has played on Proteas soil, the batsman had scored 719 runs at an average of 51.36. The batsman also scored two hundred and three fifties.
Jacques Kallis hailed Virat Kohli as a great player and highlighted his success in South African conditions. He also added that his experience will also help the younger players manage the conditions. Speaking to Star Sports, he explained:
“He’s a huge player, no matter where he is. I’ve played quite a bit here and have had quite a bit of success. He will be able to pass that knowledge on to the other guys, especially the younger guys, and give them ideas on how to handle these conditions and what to expect.”
If they want to win here, they will have to have a good series – Jacques Kallis on Virat Kohli
Jacques Kallis added that Virat Kohli would be looking forward to a great series in South Africa. He believes the senior batsman will play an important role in helping India in the Tests. He added:
“I’m sure he will want to have a great series here in South Africa. He’s been in good shape. I think it will play an important role in helping India. If they want to win here, they will have to have a good series.”
Virat Kohli has rested from the white-ball leg of the South African tour. He will soon join the team for the Test series.
