Eoin Morgan, the former captain of England, holds the belief that facing Virat Kohli in significant matches like the ODI World Cup is no easy task. The forthcoming World Cup, scheduled for October-November this year, will take place in India.
Morgan is of the firm belief that Kohli possesses the remarkable ability to elevate his performance when the stakes are high.
This according to him is a trait that not only influences his own game but also has a positive impact on his teammates. In a conversation with RevSportz, Morgan articulated his admiration for Kohli:
“I’ve had a lot of respect for Virat Kohli for a long time. It’s not just the sheer number of runs he’s scored; it’s also his behaviour on and off the pitch.”
Kohli’s ability for thriving on significant occasions makes him a formidable adversary. He channels the energy and anticipation surrounding pivotal matches, turning it into a driving force for his own success.
Morgan stated, “You wouldn’t wish to compete against him in high-stakes situations, as he thrives in such environments.”
Reflecting on the significance of having a player like Kohli, who was part of the 2011 team that clinched the World Cup on home soil, Morgan said, “Virat Kohli’s presence is advantageous. His participation in the 2011 victory, when he was a member of the team, adds a level of expertise. Managing stressful circumstances well under MS Dhoni’s leadership says volumes. With the superb management of Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, they may surely be major competitors if they navigate it well.”
Considering the existing concerns related to injuries in the middle order, Kohli’s role becomes pivotal for India’s aspirations in the World Cup.