Here's what Virat Kohli had to say about Navdeep Saini
What's the story
India came up with an amazing bowling performance against Windies in the opening T20I on Saturday, as they won by four wickets. The star of the Indian bowling attack was debutant rookie Navdeep Saini, as the pacer grabbed three for 17. Following his performance, skipper Virat Kohli showered praise on him and highlighted his hunger to take wickets. Here's what Kohli said.
Match report
Saini's 3/17 jitters Windies for paltry 95
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, India squashed the West Indian batting order, while it was Saini, whose 3/17 rattled the middle-order. His wickets included big names like Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard and Shimron Hetmyer. As Windies were restricted to mere 95/9, the Indian batsmen held their nerves to see off the Windies and pocket the match by four wickets.
Talented Saini
Kohli praises Saini's talent and pace
Following his performance, Kohli hailed Saini for his long journey from Delhi and his successful season in the IPL. He also praised his raw talent as well as pace, besides acclaiming his ability to bowl at the pace of 150. "He is someone who can build a name for himself and he is hungry as well. Hopefully, he builds on from here," said Kohli.
IPL
Saini is coming off an impressive IPL 2019 season
Considering Saini's outing in the IPL 2019, he was fairly impressive. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), under Kohli, he finished as their second-highest wicket-taker for the season. He claimed 11 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 36.09 and an economy of 8.27. Overall, he has been impressive in the format, claiming 33 wickets in 35 matches.
Indian bowling
Kohli praises India's bowling attack against Windies, criticizes pitch
Kohli also hailed the Indian bowling attack against the Windies in the opening T20I. Although he was not happy with the pitch, he praised the ground-staff for working hard and getting the pitch ready for the game on time, despite overnight rains. "With the rain around, you could not do much. They did well to start the game on time," added Kohli.
Quote
The bowlers were on top throughout: Kohli
"The bowlers were on top throughout, variations were superb. We would have liked to chase it four down, but we wanted to take risks and take the scoreboard moving. As the ball got older, strike rotation became key," concluded Kohli.