Xtra Time Web Desk: It will be interesting if the Indian team management decides to rest star batter Virat Kohli again for the ODI series decider against West Indies on Tuesday at the Brian Lara Stadium. Kohli is likely to be present at the ground with teammates but whether he will play or not will depend on team management’s decision. There are a few indications in the last few days here in the Caribbean which might suggest that Kohli can be rested yet again for the series decider.
Virat was seen having a long discussion during the practice session at Kensington Oval with selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar and Salil Ankola. Possibly that discussion could be about resting Kohli for the remaining two one dayers.
Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid did defend the team management’s decision to rest both Rohit and Virat for the second ODI.
According to Dravid, “Honestly, this was our last chance to try some of our players. We have got four of our players who are injured and are in the NCA. With days to go for the Asia Cup and then World Cup, we are kind of running out of time. We are hoping that some of them will be fit for the Asia Cup and the World Cup. But we can’t take those chances. We have to try out other people. And have to give them chances. So that in worst case scenario, they at least have game time behind them.”
There were speculations that Kohli has left for United Kingdom from Barbados after he did not travel with the team to Port of Spain on Monday evening. According to BCCI media manager, Kohli will be at the ground to for the match.
On Monday, Indian captain Rohit Sharma was seen having a long discussion with selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar.
If Kohli miss the 3rd ODI, it will be part of the strategy and not any other reasons which has been speculated.