Kohli helps Test cricket stay relevant, says former SA skipper
Undoubtedly, Test cricket is no more the most popular format of the sport. Several pundits have even written the obituary of the format. In the same context, legend Graeme Smith believes that Virat Kohli can keep Tests alive. Several times, in the past, Kohli has openly picked Tests over other formats and Smith thinks his superstardom is helping 5-day cricket to remain relevant.
Virat is a superstar in today's era: Smith
Smith quipped his views at the Jagmohan Dalmiya Annual Conclave. The former Proteas legend said that Kohli is the superstar of today's era. "World cricket is lacking huge amount of superstars. Maybe one or two in England. I think Virat is that guy." He also said that Kohli's love for Tests in a country where T20 rules could have a huge impact.
Smith lays his trust on Kohli
"The fact that he loves Test cricket and puts in performance, it keeps Test cricket relevant in a country that loves T20s. As long as Virat keeps promoting Test cricket as an icon and superstar, we all have the chance to keep the game relevant."
Kohli feels Test cricket gives more job satisfaction
The ICC is planning to introduce a 4-day format on a trial basis soon but Kohli feels the original five day format should remain as is. Kohli spoke about the satisfaction he gets from playing Tests. "I cannot explain to you the job satisfaction that you get when you do well in Test cricket, because you know how demanding it is," Kohli told Wisden.
ICC to come up with Test Championship in 2019
In order to keep Tests alive and prevent it from dying a slow death with the advent of T20Is, the ICC is coming up with the Test Championship in 2019. It will be a nine-team event and will have the normal 5-day matches. The period will be of two years from 2019 to 2021. Further, a 13-team ODI league is also on the cards.
Kohli has been on top in Tests in 2018
Kohli has been on top in Tests in 2018. The Indian captain has 1,063 runs this year and is the highest scorer in Tests. He has 4 hundreds and 4 fifties. Kohli has the chance to add to the tally next month against Australia.
