IND vs SL 2022: If Indian team wins, there will be no better gift for him – Jasprit Bumrah on Virat Kohli’s 100th Test

India’s vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah reckons if Team India can cap off with a win in the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Mohali, there won’t be a better gift for former skipper Virat Kohli, who will be playing in his 100th Test.

Kohli has been a consistent performer for the Indian team in all three formats of the game and he has played a key role in the success of the team over the years.

Kohli has delivered in all the conditions for the Indian team and Bumrah believes playing 100th Test is another feather in Kohli’s illustrious cap. The talisman has amassed 7962 runs in 99 Test matches and he will be looking to make another contribution to the team’s success.

In fact, Kohli had last scored a Test century back in 2019 and he would be looking to end his long wait for the 71st International hundred.

Jasprit Bumrah, who made his Test debut under Virat Kohli, said in the virtual press conference, “It is always a special achievement for a player to play 100 Tests. Virat has contributed a lot for this team & will continue to do so. It is another feather on his cap and I would like to congratulate Kohli – It is a testimony of his hard work.”

“If the Indian team wins, then there is no best (better) present than that. But he (Kohli) as a cricketer would like to give his best. Whichever match we play, whether it is his 100th Test, yes obviously, (it is) a big achievement and it is a testimony to his hard work, but India’s main focus is on the series.”

Meanwhile, earlier the first Test match was to be played behind closed doors but now 50% capacity crowd will be allowed in Mohali for the first game.

Bumrah added, “It’s a big day for Virat Kohli – the focus is to winning the game for India. See, right now we are in the frame of mind, where we are focussing on what we can control. (If) the crowds come, it is good for the energy, but that is something that we cannot control, we don’t have any power regarding that, we don’t decide the rules.

The first Test match will be played from March 4.