K Srikkanth believes Virat Kohli will play a pivotal role for India in the ODI World Cup

Virat Kohli has always been a pivotal figure for the Men in Blue given his staggering precedent over the years. Whenever his nation has needed him, he has rained in his most phenomenal colours, bailing India out of sheer jeopardies.

With another major World Cup looming on the horizon, India will need their best to fire home and former Indian batter, Krishnamachari Srikkanth had loads to speak about Virat’s presence in the Indian side.

Talking on Star Sports Show, “Cricket ka Mahakumbh”, Srikkanth said, “What role clarity do we need to give them? Look at Ishan Kishan for example, how he hits the ball, he has even scored a double century recently. Just tell these players to go out there and play your game, don’t restrict them. Just like Ishan Kishan, you need two or three more players who aren’t afraid to express themselves, that’s number one. All-rounders, batting all-rounders, bowling all-rounders are required in this line-up. There should be a combination of these players in the team. And what about ODI cricket? Just like Gautam Gambhir has played a major role of anchor in the past, the same way Virat Kohli will play that role this time around.”

He further added, “He will help players like Ishan Kishan excel just as he got a century when Kishan got a double century. It’s all about freedom, giving your players the freedom, do what you want, play your game even if you get out, that’s the approach the team should have.”

Going by the numbers, Virat is undoubtedly an unstoppable force in the heart of India as he is currently the sixth highest run-scorer in the ODI list with 12471 runs from 265 matches as he only trails the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting, Sanath Jayasuriya and Mahela Jayawardene.