Virat Kohli, an old warrior, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, an exciting young talent, have been placed under the spotlight as India readies itself for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia. Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel threw some light on both players who are being touted to play lead roles in the five-match Test series that will get underway from Perth.

Morne Morkel praised Virat Kohli for his unwavering intensity and professionalism, qualities that surpass his exciting batting skills. While the leadership tag on the field no longer defines Kohli, his approach to the game remains the gold standard for the team. “The intensity and professionalism Virat Kohli brings is top-notch.”.

Always pushing himself hard in the nets, he creates a culture of excellence, Morne Morkel said to reporters at a press conference in Perth. He also pointed out the relentless drive and work ethic of Kohli that provides a masterclass for the junior players; these traits inspire them to raise the bar of the game.

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Turning attention to the dynamic Nitish Kumar Reddy, Morkel expressed excitement over the young all-rounder’s potential impact in the series. Known for his explosive batting and accurate, wicket-to-wicket bowling, Reddy offers a versatility that could prove invaluable on Australian pitches.

“He is one of the young guys with batting and all-round abilities. He can hold one end, especially in the early days, and complement the pacers with tight spells,” said Morne Morkel.

The former South African pacer shines a light on the special task of resource management in a demanding series like this Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With Jasprit Bumrah spearheading the attack, Morkel feels Reddy’s skills will be very important to that step up. The young man’s ability to take relief off the pace trio by maintaining control and applying pressure can be the game-changer.

“Any team in the world would want an all-rounder like him who can help the pacers,” Morne Morkel added while emphasizing the importance of Reddy in India’s Test strategy.

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As the series approaches, all eyes will be on how Kohli’s experience and Reddy’s youthful exuberance blend to bolster India’s performance against a formidable Australian side. With World Test Championship points at stake, the duo’s contributions could be pivotal in determining the outcome of this fiercely contested rivalry.