Windies vs India: Talking points from Virat Kohli's press conference
What's the story
Team India's first assignment, following the conclusion of the ICC World Cup 2019, is their tour of Windies, starting August 3. On Monday, ahead of the team's departure, a mandatory press conference was held in Mumbai, as skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri expressed their views about the tour. Here are the major talking points from the press conference.
Team composition
Wanted to try out new players: Kohli
Kohli was asked about the team composition and the reason behind a number of new players in the side. Kohli said that it was the basic message they had received to try out some new players. While he termed the ODI side balanced, he was excited about the T20Is. "Some youngsters have shown great composure in tournaments such as the IPL," said Kohli.
Quote
It's an important time for the team to regroup
"Nothing was communicated to me about rest. It's an important time for the team to regroup. I know we were all very disappointed with not going into the World Cup final, but we have to move on," added Kohli.
Rahane
Kohli hails Rahane as a solid player
Speaking about Ajinkya Rahane's inclusion in the Test squad, Kohli said that the former has the ability to make an impact, not just with the bat, but also while fielding, at slips. "I don't think we should jump the gun. But, I think he will come around. Jinx will also come in, and he can start stringing in scores," asserted Kohli.
No rift
Kohli rubbishes rumors of his rift with Rohit Sharma
Kohli addressed the rumors of his possible rift with Rohit Sharma, terming it 'ridiculous'. Kohli said that these are nothing more than mere stories made up by people, who are feeding all the lies and negativity to others. "You enter the dressing room and witness for yourself the kind of healthy atmosphere that's there. The lies are made to look believable," Kohli voiced.
Quote
"Some people are doing there best to bring us down"
"We are living and breathing in getting Team India to the top, and here some people are doing there best to bring us down. The friendship and camaraderie is there for everyone to see," Kohli continued.
New coach
No discussions regarding new Team India coach yet
Speaking on the possibility of a new coach, Kohli said that the CAC is yet to hold discussions. Kohli also voiced that in case CAC wanted his opinion about this matter, he would speak to them. "With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," concluded Kohli.
Twitter Post
Shastri says there is no rift in the team
Head Coach Ravi Shastri on reports of rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: You cannot have this consistency across all three formats if these rifts or divisions were true. So none of this nonsense is there. pic.twitter.com/059rfEq5wT
— ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2019