Sydney: Virat Kohli has been named captain of Cricket Australia’s Test XI of the decade. In an XI that consists of the biggest names to have made a mark in the longest format of the game in the last 10 years, Kohli was hailed by CA for evolving into “one of the game’s most respected figures over the years” apart from his prowess with the bat.
Kohli, however, would bat lower down the order in this XI with his regular number three position taken up by New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.
Former England skipper Alastair Cook was selected as the opener with Australia’s David Warner as his partner. Williamson is followed by Australian stalwart Steve Smith. Kohli comes in after Smith at No.5.
Any team playing against this side wouldn’t have too much respite even after dismissing half the side as at No.6 comes South African great AB de Villiers, who is also chosen as the wicketkeeper.
England all-rounder Ben Stokes finds his place at No.7. Among the bowlers, South African legend Dale Steyn and England duo of Stuart Broad and James Anderson will handle the pace department with Nathan Lyon of Australia as the lone spinner.
The list also had honourable mentions for every positions and Ravichandran Ashwin was named along with Lyon.
Cricket Australia’s Test team of the decade: Alastair Cook, David Warner, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, Dale Steyn, Nathan Lyon, James Anderson.
IANS