His game is more about playing the anchor - Cheteshwar Pujara on Virat Kohli’s role for India against New Zealand
India will have two major additions to their batting unit, with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returning for the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. After winning the T20I series, the Men in Blue will be keen to avenge their 2-1 home ODI series defeat to New Zealand in January.
Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara spoke about the two senior batters and predicted how things might unfold for them.
Speaking to JioStar, Pujara explained the roles of Kohli and Rohit, highlighting the difference the two can make.
Asked which of the two has a better chance of scoring a century, Pujara said, “The way Rohit bats, he has a role of providing good starts in the powerplay. In New Zealand, maybe that role changes, so he could go for a century. But for Virat, the chances are slightly higher because he bats at number three. His game is more about playing the anchor role. So, for a batsman coming in at number three, scoring a century in the ODI format becomes a bit easier.”
He added, “The opener’s role is also defined, but in New Zealand conditions, that changes a bit. So, I feel Virat has more chances of scoring a hundred in New Zealand than Rohit.”
India have named a split squad for the series, with Shubman Gill leading the side in the first three ODIs and Shreyas Iyer taking over for the last two. Pujara felt that could hand New Zealand an edge.
Predicting the series result, Pujara said, “2-2. In the first three matches, one team is playing, and then, in the last two matches, another Indian team is going to play. So, I think New Zealand have a slight advantage because you aren’t playing the same team in all five matches. I’m still backing the Indian team in the first three matches, as I feel they will do well.”
He concluded, “The last two matches could be a bit of a challenge, but it will be a hard-fought series. And it rains in New Zealand, so probably one match will be a washout.”
The series gets under way at Eden Park, Auckland, on Wednesday, November 4th.
