Brad Hogg believes that both Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, two senior Indian batters in Test cricket, are under scrutiny due to the presence of several other players waiting for their chance. He then suggested that these stalwarts should be given some more time. Furthermore, Hogg believes that once the upcoming season of the IPL is done and dusted, Kohli will get a short break and then roar back to form. As he said on his YouTube channel: “I think Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara are on watch at the moment with the talent that’s going around in Indian cricket right now. But when you look at those two experienced players, the amount of travel they’ve had and they’ve just come out of the COVID bubbles. For me, when they get a decent break after the IPL, you’ll see the best of Virat Kohli again.”
Virat Kohli has struggled in the current four-match Test series against Australia. He has managed to get off to decent starts, yet unfortunately been unable to convert them into substantial scores. The prior Indian skipper has accumulated 111 runs over five innings, giving him an average of 22.20.
Brad Hogg clarified that Sarfaraz Khan, a right-handed batter, will likely join India’s Test squad soon. He asserted that the 25-year-old could perform at the highest level. Hogg further mentioned that Suryakumar Yadav should receive more chances and only be replaced if Virat Kohli or Cheteshwar Pujara don’t improve their form soon. He asserted that the Mumbai cricketer would be an ideal choice.
“Sarfaraz Khan is such a talent,” Hogg added. “But he’s got to prove himself a little more. Yes, he has been making runs in first-class cricket. But under pressure in the IPL, he sort of dropped on and off there. He has the ability to play at the highest level.
“I feel Suryakumar Yadav should get more opportunities before Sarfaraz Khan comes in. If Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara don’t perform over the next couple of months, he won’t be a bad one to bring in.”
