Aggression gets the best out of Virat Kohli, reveals Ajinkya Rahane

Aggression gets the best out of Virat Kohli, reveals Ajinkya Rahane

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India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has asserted that Virat Kohli’s aggression gets the best out of him and added that Kohli should not change his style. Rahane also revealed that missing out on the first two Tests against South Africa provided him with the extra motivation in the final Test.

Virat Kohli's superlative form with the willow has continued to garner umpteen accolades and praises, especially after his recent conquest of South Africa. With averages of 53.40 and 58.10 in Tests and ODIs respectively, it is hard to question his position as one of the best batsmen of the current, if not all time, generation. 

However, his aggressive nature as a captain (and player) has drawn mixed reviews with a few people questioning his over aggressive celebrations after a wicket. A few ex-cricketers have asked Kohli to calm down a little and tone down his aggression. But India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane feels it is aggression that gets the best out of the Indian skipper. Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2018 in Mumbai, he also opined that Kohli should not change himself. 

“Aggression gets the best out of Virat Kohli. We don't want to change anything about his aggression, about his approach when he is batting or when he is fielding,” Rahane was quoted saying by India Today.  

While aggression is good for certain players, it can also lead to ugly spats. One such incident is that of David Warner and Quinton de Kock where they were involved in a fiery exchange during the first Test between South Africa and Australia in Durban. However, Rahane feels that sledging is a part of the game but what happens on the field needs to remain there. 

“I saw what happened during South Africa and Australia first Test but I feel what happens on the pitch should stay there,” Rahane added.

In what came as shock decision to many, Ajinkya Rahane sat out in the first two Tests in South Africa with Rohit Sharma getting the nod in his place. However, he made a successful return in the third and final Test match where he made a vital 48 in the second innings on a challenging pitch. Rahane revealed that missing out on the first two Tests provided him with the extra motivation to perform in the final Test. 

“Johannesburg was challenging but I was motivated as I didn't play the first two tests. I had worked very hard on my batting and when I got to know I am going to play the match, for me it was an opportunity to become a hero. I am really happy that I contributed towards India's victory,” Rahane said. 

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