Ian Smith Calls Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli 'The Best Batsmen Of Current Era'
Published - 17 Feb 2020, 05:37 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:04 AM
Legendary New Zealand commentator Ian Smith has deemed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as two of the ‘best batsmen’ in the world of the ‘current era’.
While Kohli has struggled to stamp his authority on the New Zealand bowlers in the ongoing tour, he will hope to do better when India take on the host in the two-match Test series that begins on February 21, at Wellington.
Rohit, on the other hand, was in explosive form during the T20I series between the Black Caps and the Men in Blue.
However, the 32-year-old tweaked his calf in the same series, and subsequently missed the ODI series and was left out of the Test squad as well.
Despite the fact that India lost the recently-concluded ODI series, Smith has lavished praise on two of India’s most experienced campaigners, calling them the best batsmen in the world at present.
Ian Smith praises Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and the Indian bowling attack:
The 62-year-old former New Zealand player turned commentator Smith was full of praises for India’s skipper and vice-captain, while also crediting the Indian bowling unit.
“Two of the most beautiful batsmen I can think of in the current era are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli,” Smith was quoted as saying in Xtra Time.
In his illustrious career, Smith played 63 Tests and 98 Tests for the Black Caps from 1980-1982. He acknowledged Virat’s recent struggles but nonetheless, backed him to come good in Test.
“I expect VK to score one- maybe two- very big innings in the Test series,” he stated.
He further added, “This is the best Indian team- with regards to bowling attack- that case come to NZ.”
After surrendering the ODI series, India will look to bounce back in the Tests, with the first Test scheduled to commence from 21st February at Basin Reserve, Wellington. The second Test will then be played from February 29 onwards, at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.
The two-match Test series holds further importance, as the visitors would like to further consolidate their lead atop the ICC Test Championship, as they currently have 360 points from seven matches.
New Zealand on the other hand, are ranked sixth on the list, with 60 points from five games.
Tagged:
Ian Smith India National Cricket Team India Tour of New Zealand 2020 New Zealand National Cricket Team Rohit Sharma Virat Kohli
