Former cricketers predict tough times ahead for Team India following Kohli’s departure

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Virat Kohli had a patchy tour of Australia in terms of form. (Indian Express)

Team India suffered a scarring loss at the hands of Australia in their maiden away day-night test in Adelaide. The visitors could only remain in the contest for two and a half days after being bowled out for 36 in the second innings. With Virat Kohli set to leave for India, former cricketers Ricky Ponting and Shahid Afridi sense difficult times ahead for the side. 

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Virat Kohli had a patchy tour of Australia in terms of form. (Indian Express)

The legendary Australian captain opined that it will be an uphill task for the Indian side to spring a turn around without Kohli in their midst. Ponting also vouched for the inclusion of Rishabh Pant in the playing eleven to strengthen the batting unit. He has closely been working with the wicket-keeper batsman for the last two years at Delhi Capitals.

“With Kohli not being there as well there’s almost no-one to pick them back up after a loss like that. They’ve got to make a couple of changes. Rishabh Pant has to be in that middle order. With Kohli not being there they’ve got to strengthen their batting, he’s got to come in,” Ponting told cricket.com.au.

To conclude, Ponting also predicted a clean sweep in favour of Australia. He fully expects the team to rack up the wins in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney.

Apart from Ponting, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi also believes that Kohli’s absence will play a major factor.

While he believes that the Indian batting unit have the ability to bounce back, but the chances are now difficult with Kohli no more in the line-up.

“Brilliant display by Cummins and Hazelwood today, really enjoyed top-quality Test match fast bowling after long time. Indian batting is still capable of fighting back but it will be now tougher without Kohli,”

In the absence of Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane is expected to take up the leadership responsibilities as well as the vital No.4 spot in the batting order. The team are expected to make several changes for the boxing day test with KL Rahul, Mohammad Siraj, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant in-line for an appearance.

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