India vs West Indies | I think Virat Kohli wanted to test his team in Vizag, reckons Ian Bishop

Team India was held to a draw at the end of the second ODI against West Indies that was played in Visakhapatnam earlier this week, courtesy of some fine batting performances from West Indian duo - Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmeyer. Virat Kohli’s record-breaking knock was not enough to guide the home team to a second consecutive win in the ongoing series.

However, former Windies pacer - Ian Bishop - was quick to suggest that Kohli’s decision to bat first after winning the toss in Vizag was a premeditated call. Bishop reckoned that the Indian captain wanted to test his side against the odds of batting first on a pitch that would essentially favor the bowlers early on.

“I can’t really think of any other reason as to why Kohli despite knowing history would do what he did. So, I think he wanted to test his team somehow,” said Bishop, an expert in Star Sports’ Counter Point discussion.

The legendary bowler also added that the impressive partnership of Hope-Hetmeyer was inspired by that of Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the first match of the series. 

“I agree. His message is quite clear, and the West Indies guys were saying he is a great player, and if I want to be a great player too, this is what I have to do,” Bishop added.

Hope (123 not out off 134 balls) and Hetmyer (94 off 64) shared a brilliant 143-run fourth wicket stand to not only rebuild the West Indian innings but almost chase a massive target of 322. The two sides will now face off on Saturday in the third ODI at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.