Press Trust of India
Chennai, Aug 3: Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan Sunday that the ‘controlled and aggressive’ nature of skipper Virat Kohli rubs on the entire team and inspires the players to be more attacking on the cricket field.
“He (Kohli) is really controlled and aggressive in the field and that brings about a change in attitude of others. They also turn more positive and attacking,” said Dhawan.
Kohli and Dhawan have been friends for long and have played Ranji Trophy for Delhi. Asked about their friendship, the left-hander said, “We are still the same and it is not that something has changed. It is good that my captain has expectations from me and I hope I play consistently for my team.”
Asked about competition for the opening slot, Dhawan said it is good for the team as well as individuals vying for the slot. “I think it is a good thing for Indian cricket that there is so much competition for opening slot. Players put in more effort because you can be kicked out if you don’t play well and perform. I take it positively and try to ensure that I give my best,” stated the left-hander.
Asserting that it is necessary to score quick runs in Test cricket also, the Dehli-based batsman stated that he likes to keep his batting simple. “I just try to keep it simple. If I get a good delivery, I just defend it and if I get a loose ball then I hit it,” Dhawan said. “But my approach is to score always at a quick pace.”