IND vs AUS 2023: He is always a step ahead of the bowlers – Rajkumar Sharma on Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has lauded the former Indian skipper. Sharma revealed that Kohli is always a step ahead of the opposition and prepares for every series in a very professional way.

Kohli is known to have all the hunger and he recently returned to prime form in the limited over series against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. However, Kohli is yet to find his Midas touch in Test matches and he will be determined to prove his mettle against Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series.

The talisman has started his preparation for the crucial series in Nagpur, where the first Test match will be played. Kohli has amassed 1682 runs in 20 Test matches against Australia at an average of 48.05.

Speaking on India News, Rajkumar Sharma said: “You can’t take Australia lightly and Virat knows that. He visualizes himself doing well. He prepares well against Australia. He is always a step ahead of the bowlers because there is a lot of planning against him. He leaves no stones unturned and stays focused.”

He added: “Virat Kohli has been in sensational form in ODIs. I hope he replicates that form here as well. He gives stability to the middle order. His experience and role are very important.”

On the other hand, Australia have quality bowlers such as Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins whereas Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the first Test match due to respective series.

Former India wicket-keeper bat Saba Karim reckons there will be exciting mini-battles in the series and wants Kohli to dominate against the visitors.

“Virat Kohli will have the edge because once he gets set, it’ll be difficult to get him out. It will be an interesting series. There will be mini-battles. For example, Kohli vs Nathan Lyon, Kohli v Mitchell Starc, Kohli vs Pat Cummins. The flavor will be different this time.”

Virat Kohli is going to hold the key for the home team in the upcoming series and he will want to be at his absolute best. The first Test match between India and Australia will be played at Nagpur from February 9.