Updated: November 21, 2020 2:12:06 pm
Virat Kohli walks away dejected after losing his window. (Source: Reuters)
Virat Kohli, captain of the Indian cricket team, will return home after the first test against Australia, as his wife Anushka Sharma will give birth to their first child in January.
While Kohli’s paternity leave is viewed as positive for the hosts, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes that the 32-year-old’s absence could be good for Indian players.
“If you really take a look, India has won every time Virat wasn’t there, be it the Dharamshala Test against Australia, the Afghanistan Test, the Nidahas Trophy or the Asian Cup in 2018. Indian players tend to improve their game when is not around. They understand that they have to make up for their absence, ”Gavaskar told TOI on Friday.
“It is going to be difficult for Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Both players have to work hard. The captaincy will really help Rahane. You will feel much more secure and in control of situations. The selection committee is clear about who should lead in Virat’s absence and he has done well as captain of the event, ”added Gavaskar.
READ: Sunil Gavaskar to Virat Kohli- Age of paternity leave
“Pujara should be allowed to play the game he knows best. That’s what brought you here. You don’t manipulate a player’s aptitude or natural temperament. Since you never told Sehwag how to play, no one should tell Pujara how to get runs as long as he’s getting the runs and the hundreds, ”Gavaskar said.
“If left alone and not pressured, that will work in India’s favor,” he added.
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