Sports and aggression go hand in hand. And when it comes to Virat Kohli, he is known for his aggression. However, people often take it otherwise. But the New Zealand all-rounder Richard Hadlee has backed Virat Kohli on his aggressive approach, citing that he is a passionate cricketer.
“I see Virat as being a very passionate and competitive cricketer with a strong desire for himself and the team to succeed. He is a proud man and a world-class player – a delight to watch. The pressure and expectations on him to win is enormous. Millions idolize him which puts great pressure on him,” Hadlee said to The Times of India.
“All sports at the highest level are about competing. It is finding a way to win a game and gain an advantage over one’s opponent. There will always be a fine line as to whether gamesmanship from a player or a team goes too far. I quite like seeing any player expressing himself towards the opposition by having a real presence – it’s a form of intimidation that can be unsettling,” he further added.
READ HERE: PCB gets all approvals to host PSL 6 matches in Abu Dhabi
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli will soon lead the team in the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship final against Kane Williamson’s New Zealand which will begin on June 18 in Southampton. However, he also added that both teams are going to enjoy the England conditions but he didn’t name a winner, saying that it’s too close to pick one. Notably, New Zealand beat India at home in a two-match Test series last year. On the other hand, India beat Australia in Australia and then thrashed England at home this year as well.
“The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it’s a final but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It’s a neutral ground with no home advantage. It’s something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting in the final because of their consistency over a set period,” he again shared.
ALSO READ: Immediate Focus On England Test Series, Says Kane Williamson
“It all comes down to who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest. The weather may also play a part and if it’s cold, that may favour New Zealand. The Dukes ball will suit both team’s fast bowlers, especially the genuine swing bowlers, and the Kiwis are well served in that department with Southee, Boult and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged. Too difficult to call a winner at this stage,” Richard Hadlee concluded.
