ICC World Cup 2019 | Disappointing not to get any game time at all, says Virat Kohli

After winning two games on the trot, India were all geared up to continue their winning run and seek revenge for the warm-up game loss against New Zealand in their third encounter at Nottingham today. The incessant rains and a damp outfield resulted in the fourth washout of the tournament. Virat Kohli felt disappointed after not getting any play whatsoever and stated a player’s perspective regarding playing on such tricky conditions.  

“Disappointing not to get any game time at all. From the players' point of view and where the teams are placed, it was better suited not to take the field when it is not safe to play. Don't want an injury at this stage. We've been playing some good cricket, we're not too worried about where we stand. Having two wins does give you confidence. A couple of practice sessions and we should be fine. It's only about getting game time and that should happen on Sunday,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. 

India will play their next game against arch-rivals Pakistan, which is also touted to be the most-awaited match off the tournament. Kohli also shed light on Shikhar Dhawan’s injury and is hoping for his successful return in the business end of the tournament. 

“As soon as you enter the field, it's all calm. All the excitement and frenzy around the game could intimidate guys who are playing for the first time. For us, it's about executing our skills and we're all professionals. It's been competitive for a while now, it's been a marquee event and it's an honour to be a part of such an event. (On Dhawan) He's gonna be in a plaster for a couple of weeks and then, we'll assess where he stands. Hopefully, he heals quickly and should be available for the latter half of our league stages, and the semifinals as well,” Kohli added.

Kane Williamson-led New Zealand side defeated India in the warm-up game and were high on confidence in taking on the tournament favourites.  However, continuous downpour meant both the teams had to settle with a point apiece. Williamson revealed that his side has been at the venue for the last four days and didn’t see any sunshine so far.   

“We have been here for 4 days and haven't seen any sun, so doesn't come as a too much of a surprise for us. You just try and get what you need off it (about the frustrating wait during the rain). Not ideal and at the same time little bit of time off is also very important in these tournaments. We do have a little break now which I guess is an interesting period sort of midway through the tournament, a good chance for us to freshen up and look forward to the next challenge,” Williamson said.  

New Zealand are scheduled to play South Africa next and would be hoping to remain at the top of the table with an emphatic win. Their pacers have been in good form and have done well in all the games so far. 

“They (Tim Southee and Henry Nicholls) are progressing really nicely. South Africa are a very good side and everytime we play them there's bit of extra competitiveness there. A few days before that game, so good opportunity for guys to get away and refresh and then come back ready for a couple of trainings before that challenge. Every game in this competition is really tough and every game has a similar worth I suppose in terms of points there are up for grabs. Everytime you go into it you try and prepare as well as you can to perform your best."