Kohli believes India-England series may well prove to be a new dawn for the revival of Test cricket

09/12/2018

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Virat Kohli has stated that the Test series between India and England, that ended yesterday, will be considered as important for the revival of Test cricket as both the sides displayed great character. He further went onto add that the Indians were not outplayed apart from the Lord's Test.

India lost to England in the last Test match at The Oval by 118 runs but KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant put up a fight by adding 204 runs for the sixth wicket. Chasing 464 in the fourth innings, India were in dire-straits with three down for only two runs on the board. In the post-match presentation, the Indian skipper hailed the performance of Rahul and Pant in the second innings. Kohli said that although they lost the series, the Indians have played good cricket throughout the series. Rahul scored 149 while the Indian wicket-keeper amassed 114 off 146 balls.

"The kind of cricket we have played might not show on the scorecard. But both the teams know this series has been a competitive one. It has taken a lot out of both the sides and something that we have enjoyed. We have taken on the challenge head on and today was a case of two guys not giving up. And they actually entertained the crowd. Probably, this is the revival of Test cricket. This has been a great advertisement for Test cricket," said Virat in the post-match press conference.

"I think a lot of credit has to go to the two young guys. Stepping up at such a crucial juncture with three wickets down for just two runs was really good. To be brutally honest, we did not talk about whether we will win this game or not. The basic idea was to go out there and play the cricket we are known to play."

India were at a good position in the first Test match but were unable to grab their chances as England England eventually won by 31 runs. While the hosts completely dominated the Lord's Test match by winning it by an innings and 159 runs, India won at Trent Bridge. However, the next two games were taken away by the Englishmen quite comfortably as they secured a 4-1 series victory.

"We did not take our opportunities. England also don't go for draws and they played fearless cricket and so did we. You will have competitive series'. That is why you won't see draws in these kind of series'. We have not been outplayed barring Lords. We can take a lot of heart from this but need to apply ourselves better the next time around."

Mentioning Alastair Cook after the latter's retirement, the Indian skipper said, "Just one word for Alastair Cook. You have had a great career. I wish you well and congratulate you for what you have done. All the best for all your future endeavors."

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