I expect Virat to have a great World Cup - Sanjay Manjrekar expresses why he feels Virat Kohli will play a major role for India in the World Cup 2023

Virat Kohli will have a crucial role to play in the Indian cricket team with a massive Asia Cup campaign kick-starting in a few days ahead of the crucial World Cup 2023 in home conditions. 

It was in Asia Cup 2022, that Kohli regained his strides where he smashed a crucial knock against Pakistan in the tournament opener that showed glimpses of his return. It was later against Afghanistan where he smashed his 71st century, shattering a long drought of centuries.

For the upcoming stars who will find themselves in the squad for the quadrennial extravaganza, it presents an opportunity to learn a lot from Kohli. However, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes that Kohli is going to be indispensable for Team India and that too in a particular way.

Shining some light on Kohli’s role in the team, Manjrekar said, “Great player who has had a great journey. But people change, players change and skills change as well. At this stage, you see that Rohit Sharma, his greatest skill and impact is visible in Test cricket. I expect Virat to have a great World Cup.”

He further added, “With his current state of play, you would think that 50-overs is just the right format for him. On the big stage, he has done it for India on many occasions. You get excited about many young and rising players. But on a big night, we need a player, who has been there, done that. That is where Virat becomes so valuable for India.”

Kohli will have all eyes on him as he returns to action against Pakistan on September 2nd, when India kick-start their Asia Cup campaign with a blockbuster battle against their arch-rivals.