ODI World Cup 2023

Ex-England spinner shells out advice for Virat Kohli ahead of India-Australia clash

The cricketing world will undoubtedly focus on one of the great players within the Indian squad, Virat Kohli when they begin their World Cup 2023 bid versus Australia at Chennai’s famed MA Chidambaram Stadium. One of the most admired and talented cricketers of his time, Kohli is 35 years old. The pressure to lead his nation towards the long-awaited major world title, something India hasn’t accomplished in ten years, though, is possibly the biggest weight on his shoulders.

The former England bowler Monty Panesar has emphasised how crucial it is for Kohli to reach his peak for their World Cup hopes. All eyes are going to be on Kohli as the host team attempts to end a ten-year World Cup drought by winning the coveted trophy, and the former England great thinks Kohli will play a significant part in the competition.

Monty Panesar spoke to PTI and said, “His presence is going to be absolutely huge for this Indian team. Virat Kohli will be setting the trend when it comes to batting — the intensity, running. He senses a moment on the field. He grabs the whole team and tells -– this is the winning moment, and let’s grab it.”

Team India hopes to start on a winning note against Australia

Panesar thought that fourth-time World Cup participant Virat Kohli would save his best performance for the semi-finals and finals. The spinner added, “I like to see Kohli peaks at the right time. He peaked too early in last year’s T20 World Cup. I think he peaked too early during the group stages. He played an innings that was worthy of a final against Pakistan (in the group match). This time I hope he saves it for the final or for the semifinal.”

When Team India plays Australia to open its World Cup play in Chennai, the team will be looking to get off to a winning start versus experienced rivals. Having played two bilateral one-day international series against each other this year, there won’t be much that either team would not be familiar with.