Despite all the talk about his future in the Indian ODI lineup, Virat Kohli has almost confirmed that he has his sights set on the 2027 ICC World Cup. Kohli confirmed to broadcasters Ravi Shastri and Adam Gilchrist his desire to continue for the prestigious tournament.
The rain-affected match between India and Australia was seen at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Rain interrupted play several times in the first 15 overs of the game. Four hours after the start of the game, the Australian team has bowled only 15 overs and as per the latest update the game has been reduced to 32 overs.
With the top order failing to score runs, KL Rahul has stepped into the crease with Axar Patel looking to steady the innings following the dismissal of Shreyas Iyer. Iyer was dismissed in Hazlewood’s second spell as the batsman edged the ball down the leg, just like captain Shubman Gill.
While talking to Adam Gilchrist and Ravi Shastri, Virat Kohli hinted at stopping the World Cup.
Virat Kohli did not have an ideal return to the international format as he was out for a duck off Mitchell Starc in his comeback game. The right-handed batsman faced eight balls without scoring a single run and was out attempting a big, sharp drive.
Before the start of the match, Virat Kohli was involved in a conversation with Fox Sports broadcasters Adam Gilchrist and Ravi Shastri, where he confirmed his desire to play in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.
Broadcasters have also expressed their desire to see Kohli play in the upcoming World Cup. Even Rohit and Kohli have harbored hopes of playing in the tournament two years from now. Kohli never talked about his desire publicly this time too, but his behavior in front of Gilchrist and Shastri shows his desire to play in the World Cup.
Here’s how the conversation unfolded:
Gilchrist: Well, 2027 is obviously on the radar for you. You have achieved everything in the game. Congratulations for IPL also. That elusive title. So, it’s good. Best wishes
Kohli: Thanks (smiles).
Gilchrist: Thank you very much for joining us, and welcome back to Australia. Have a good series.
Kohli: Thank you.
Virat Kohli talks about his bond with the Australian audience
Speaking in the interview, Shastri questioned him as to what was the reason for Kohli’s dominance while playing in Australia. On this, Virat Kohli said about his affection for Australia that he respects how the spectators know the game and appreciates everyone who performs down there.
Kohli said, “They really appreciate how you stand up and play that kind of cricket. And if you go out there and play competitive cricket, you will realize how good you can be as a cricketer and you will realize in the long run that it has really helped shape your whole make-up and your mental setup as a player.”
“So, like I said, I have nothing but gratitude to have experienced all those moments here and the crowds I’ve had on a regular basis have really brought out the best in me. And I had no choice but to be 120% or there was no chance to perform in this country and in those adverse conditions. So, yes, as a cricketer I’ve had a really good time here,” he said.
Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma disappointed on return to ODI
Along with Virat Kohli, two other Indian legends, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma also failed to perform well at the top of the batting order. Just as Rohit was trying to dominate the first, he was caught behind on a sharp bouncer which took him by surprise.
Later, Shubman Gill bowled out a very loose ball which was going down leg. Nathan Ellis’ ball, which had left the batsman down the leg side, took a light edge to Gill and he was out for just 10 runs. Gill failed in his ODI captaincy debut.
Also read: Watch- After failing to score runs, Rohit Sharma is trying his best to save his place in the dressing room.
