New Zealand In Great Hands, Says Virat Kohli As He Throws Support Behind Under-Pressure Kane Williamson

In yet dramatic and thrilling game, India beat New Zealand by seven runs in the fifth T20I to inflict a whitewash on the hosts. Despite Virat Kohli rested and Rohit Sharma not being able to field due to an injury, the visitors managed to defend a modest 163 on a good batting track.

In Virat Kohli and Rohit’s absence, KL Rahul took charge of the team and played the role to perfection. Batting first, India posted 163 for 3 in the allotted 20 overs. Rohit Sharma top-scored for the hosts, scoring 60 before retiring hurt. In reply, New Zealand ended up on 156 for 9.

Also Read: Twitter Goes Berserk As India Stage Stunning Comeback With Ball To Beat New Zealand In Fifth T20I

5️⃣ – 0️⃣ ?????????????? #TeamIndia #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/pn0qTiwDHR

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2020

The Black Caps were off to a disastrous start as they were reduced to 17 for 3. However, a 99-run stand between Tim Seifert and Ross Taylor put them in a strong position before they suffered an almighty collapse to end up on 156 for 9. Both Taylor and Seifert scored fifties but their efforts were not enough to ensure a win for the side.

With the win, Virat Kohli became the first Indian captain to inflict a whitewash over New Zealand in the shortest format of the game. Earlier in the series, he also became the first India captain to win a T20I series in New Zealand. Speaking at the end of the game, Virat Kohli praised his teammates for their impressive performance.

“All of us are really proud of how we played. It’s about finding ways to win. Today, all these young guys were on the field after Rohit’s unfortunate injury and them coming together and handling the pressure well is great to see. We need everyone to be the best versions of themselves. These kind of victories give more satisfaction than one-sided wins,” said Kohli.

In a beautiful gesture, Virat Kohli also threw his support behind Kane Williamson who is facing criticism for the recent results. Before suffering the whitewash in the just-concluded series, New Zealand had also suffered a whitewash in a three-match Test series at the hands of Australia.

“Although the scoreline may not reflect, New Zealand is in great hands with Kane Williamson leading them, they are side headed in the right direction,” said Kohli.

Also Read: Twitter Goes Berserk As Waterboys Kane Williamson And Virat Kohli Chat Together Outside Boundary