Shane Watson backs Virat Kohli for this historic feat
What's the story
Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has been mightily impressed with the leadership qualities Virat Kohli has shown so far. Moreover, he has backed the Indian skipper to take the side to greater heights and also feels that he has what it takes to make India the next 'all-conquering Australia'. His opinion comes following India's series win over South Africa in the ongoing Test series.
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The [Indian] team is responding to his [Kohli's] leadership: Watson
"He [Virat Kohli] has done a great job with the Indian team. He has been playing so well in all formats. Whatever he is doing right now is certainly working and the team is responding to his leadership," said Watson during an event in Chennai.
Domination
Watson on what he expects from Team India
Speaking on whether India can replicate the same dominating performance as Australia under Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting, Watson said that it would be an uphill task. However, he asserted that India certainly have what it takes to do it, especially under Kohli. "The depth in Indian cricket is incredible. I am sure this team can win away from home as well," he added.
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Watson hails depth of Indian cricket as 'incredibly strong'
"There is no doubt that India has got depth in all facets. The depth in Indian cricket is incredibly strong. It has got the luxury of having someone like a Rohit Sharma opening the batting and scoring lots of runs," Watson continued.
Test captaincy records
Records held by Kohli as Test captain
Following are some of the records held by Kohli as Test captain: Scoring 1,000 runs in three consecutive calendar years (2016-18). Has scored the most double hundreds as Test skipper (7). Has the most Test wins as Indian captain (30). Is the most successful away Test skipper for India (13 wins). Has the most Test wins as Indian captain outside Asia (8).
Immortal Dhoni
Watson backs Dhoni to still make an impact for India
Watson also backed former Indian skipper, MS Dhoni, to still make an impact for the side as he believes that the latter has still got the skills. "It's down to him to decide. He still moves incredibly well, runs hard between the wickets and has beautiful hands. Whatever he does, it will be the right thing because he knows what lies ahead," he concluded.
Current status
Dhoni yet to play for India following World Cup ouster
For now, Dhoni is on a sabbatical from the sport following the conclusion of India's World Cup campaign. Dhoni has missed India's limited-overs campaign against Windies and South Africa so far, while he is also set to miss the Bangladesh series in November, having extended his break until the month. He is likely to play the T20Is against the Windies in December.