WTC Final: losing the toss did not faze Virat Kohli

Despite losing the toss on Saturday, Virat Kohli was in a confident mood. He admitted that batting first plays to the Indian team’s strength. Kohli also stressed the importance of putting runs on board in any match.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and decided to bowl first. Thereby, the Indian team would bat first on a damp pitch and under overcast conditions.

Speaking at the toss, Virat Kohli highlighted how the Indian team favored batting first in recent years. He said that he would have chosen to bowl first as well because of the conditions. But he agreed that putting runs on board is important and has been the team’s strength over the years. So the Indian team would try to put some good target runs for New Zealand. Kohli also pointed out that the Indian batting lineup is deep. It would give them enough options to put good runs on board. Moreover, in a final, putting up runs on board first would be an advantage.

Even after the rain delay, India decided to stick with the initial playing eleven that they had announced. Many had speculated of India would play two spinners in English conditions after the rain. But Kohli decided to play without making any changes to the team.

Virat Kohli also clarified his decision to play two spinners where New Zealand has decided to go with an all-pace lineup. He stated that the team management did not even think of changing the team lineup. India has a balanced team with a deep batting lineup. Moreover, Ashwin and Jadeja are experienced spinners who can probably bowl in any condition. They would be accurate enough to create pressure if there is dampness on the pitch.

Virat Kohli revealed his expectations from the one-off Test between India and New Zealand

Virat Kohli clarified that the team has been looking at the WTC final as just another Test to showcase their skills. The Indian side has been the leading test team for the past few years. Thereby, they would play this test like any other test a match with proper discipline and protocol. The Indian team would focus on the cricket they have played so far and play with a passion for the game.

India would have prioritized putting a big score on board while batting first. But the pacers of New Zealand would use full advantage of the overcast condition and try to dent the Indian top order.

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