As far as Kohli is concerned, the backdrop could not have been more interesting and the wild allegations of ball tampering levelled by a section of British media could surely act as a catalyst for him to do a Faf du Plessis. A du Plessis-like century will be a befitting reply to all the conspiracy theories that have been floated.
In sublime form with 337 runs under his belt, the Indian captain, on his day, can make life really difficult for the English bowlers, who are certainly feeling the effect of his blazing blade.
While Jimmy Anderson did make an impressive comeback, the absence of Stuart Broad will definitely affect England as the lanky fast bowler performed superbly despite injury during the Visakhapatnam Test match.
Add to it Zafar Ansari’s sore back has also increased England captain Alastair Cook’s worries. Ben Duckett, after a wretched run, may have to sit out making way for an impact player like Jos Buttler.
In this situation, there is every possibility that Kohli could make mincemeat of the England attack as seamer Chris Woakes and Ansari’s possible replacement, off-spinner Gareth Batty, might not have the wherewithal to stop the Indian ace.
Cheteshwar Pujara (262 runs in 2 Tests), who has shown a lot of positive intent with back-to-back centuries, will like to consolidate his position in the side with another impressive effort.
(Sourced from agencies, feature image courtesy:oneindia.com)
