England are chasing a familiar total of 371 runs at Headingley on Day 5 of the 1st Test match. After a steady start, they have begun to shift gears.
Ravi Shastri Highlights Need for On-Field Aggression in Kohli’s Absence
India’s bowling unit delivered a lacklustre performance in the first innings, except for Jasprit Bumrah, who was the only real threat to England. The rest of the bowlers leaked runs from the other end. Unfortunately for India, a similar pattern is repeating in the second innings; this time, even Bumrah is yet to make an impact as the England openers continue to control the chase.
Advertisement
Speaking on air, Ravi Shastri suggested that Shubman Gill needs someone with Virat Kohli’s presence on the field to push back against England. Shastri highlighted the intensity Kohli brings and his readiness to take on the opposition.
"India needs someone to do a Kohli job, someone who can be right at the face of the opposition. Someone has to be designated or given that role. There's not a single guy who can do it at the moment. Kohli could do it for three people. Hence, two people could be designated to do that job against England," Shastri said on air.
Also Read: ‘Kohli Lives Rent-Free in Your Mind’ – Fans Slam Manjrekar Over Latest Jibe
Kohli’s Legacy Looms
Virat Kohli, as Test captain, operated on a different level. He had the intensity and aggression to overpower the course of a match at any given moment. One of the most iconic examples was at the Lord’s test match in 2021, when Kohli and his team defended 270 in 60 overs. His famous line, “For 60 overs, they should feel like hell out there,” influenced his bowlers, who responded by bowling England out for 121 to secure a historic Test win.
Also Read: Indian Batter Tilak Varma Hits Hundred On County Debut
Advertisement
As India aims to defend the target, England's openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett have batted smartly, bringing up a 100-run partnership. Their approach has put pressure on India as the match progresses.
For more live updates of England vs India 1st test day 5
