Kohli praises Shastri's contributions, denies him being a 'yes man'
What's the story
Kohli and Co. are on their way to Australia for their tour comprising of three T20Is, four Tests and three ODIs. Before the team left, captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri spoke to journalists in a press conference, where Kohli opened up about Shastri's role in the team, India's performances, and several other topics. Read on for more details.
Shastri
Kohli praises Ravi Shastri's contributions
Kohli, wholeheartedly, praised Ravi Shastri's contributions to the team. He said Shastri has made many players, who lacked in confidence, believe that they do belong to the Indian team. He pointed out Shastri's contributions during the 2014 tour of England. Kohli also pointed out Shastri's superior man-management skills, which the captain believes is of supreme importance at the highest level.
Further comments
Shastri always gives an honest opinion: Kohli
The Indian captain also stated that Shastri is not the 'yes man' to all of his decisions, as it is often projected in the media. Kohli says that no other person has disagreed more with him than Shastri, and assured that the head coach gives an honest opinion every time. Kohli says he, himself, has changed his batting style after listening to Shastri.
Batting
The skipper expects better performances from batsmen
India's batting remains a concern as no one apart from Kohli made a mark during the England tour. Kohli praised the bowlers and lauded the fact that now India have a bowling attack capable of taking 20 wickets in a match. "When we don't bat well as a team, we fall down and lose and mentally it takes a toll on you", he added.
Sledging
Kohli's comments on sledging during the Australian series
Tensions are always a bit high whenever India and Australia meet on the cricket field. Kohli is someone who is not known for taking a step back, when challenged. Regarding sledging that might happen, the captain promised that Men in Blue will never be the ones to start it, but surely will retaliate in equal measure if they are provoked.
Expectations
What can we expect during the series from India?
India have introduced changes in their ranks, with Murali Vijay and Rohit Sharma called up for the Test squad. The fact that Australia will not have Steve Smith and David Warner can be a bonus on which India need to capitalize. The series will surely have an impact on selection for the World Cup and players need to put their best foot forward.
Information
What is the schedule of India's tour of Australia?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off from December 6 and will consist of four Test matches. It will be preceded by a three-match T20I series starting from November 21 and followed by a three-match ODI series from January 12.