Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has backed Virat Kohli to score two centuries in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. Kohli has been in fine form in the recent past and Kaif expects the talisman to continue his rich form.
The veteran scored a majestic knock of 139 runs off just 88 balls in the series opener against the West Indies while playing at home.
“I think in five ODIs, I expect two hundreds from him because his recent form — in every third or fourth inning, a century is coming,” Kaif said on his official YouTube channel ahead of the opening fixture
The former UP batter highlighted that Kohli has an impressive record while playing against New Zealand.
“And against New Zealand, he loves to play; his record is fantastic. We remember the 2023 World Cup semi-final, his 50th ODI century… Against New Zealand, this player loves to play,” Kaif said. “Especially when there are challenging conditions and good bowling teams like Australia and New Zealand, you cannot write off Virat Kohli. He lifts his game even further. So with five ODIs, I expect two hundreds from him as a given.”
On the other hand, the NatWest trophy final hero added India’s team management obsession of playing all-rounders, could cost Kuldeep Yadav’s place in the team.
“When this team carries eight batsmen, Kuldeep misses out. We have seen this many times. Kuldeep’s inclusion means you have to reduce one fast bowler — two fast bowlers plus Reddy, then he can play. But with three proper pacers plus Reddy and Axar Patel, you won’t be able to fit Kuldeep in,” Kaif continued.
Kaif added Kuldeep Yadav’s place in the team will depend on the type of combination the visitors would play.
“However, if you keep an open mind – like they played Varun in the last T20 because fast bowlers were getting hit – considering wrist spin, bounce, and top-spin, you can play Kuldeep. Two fast bowlers, Reddy, Kuldeep, Axar Patel, Naman Dhir… otherwise, if you play three main fast bowlers, Kuldeep won’t play under this team’s mindset,” Kaif concluded.
The first ODI between India and New Zealand will be played at Eden Park, Auckland, on Wednesday.
