Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Virat Kohli's 'Temperament' For Playing Match-winning Knock Against New Zealand

With the victory against New Zealand, India continued their impressive run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, having won all five of their matches. The Indian team now leads the points table with 10 points and a net run rate of 1.35.

sunil-gavaskar-lauds-virat-kohli-temperament-for-playing-match-winning-knock-against-new-zealand — Sunil Gavaskar was all praise of Virat Kohli after his match-winning knock in Dharamsala. (Photo: @ICC/X)

By Manik Sharma
Mon, 23 Oct 2023 05:33 PM (IST)
Source:JND

In a thrilling encounter in Dharamsala, India secured a significant victory over New Zealand propelling them to a top spot in the points table at ODI World Cup 2023. This was India’s first win over New Zealand in an ICC tournament in 20 years. The Indian bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami's exceptional five-wicket haul, restricted New Zealand to 273 runs.

The chasemaster, Virat Kohli played a pivotal role in this victory, contributing a remarkable 95 runs before getting out and missing out on his 49th ODI ton. The Indian team successfully chased down the target with two overs to spare, keeping their perfect winning record in the tournament intact.

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar praised Kohli's calm and composed performance after the match on Star Sports. He said the difficult match situation will help India in the upcoming contests in the World Cup.

ALSO READ: India's Legendary Spinner Bishan Singh Bedi Passes Away At 77

"This was a very important situation from which to come through. And Kohli ensured that calmness which is tremendous, which gives you confidence if a similar situation occurs with a more demanding asking rate, as he will still be able to deliver," Gavaskar said.

Another notable performance came from Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 39 runs and played a crucial role in building a partnership with Kohli to secure the win. Gavaskar commended Jadeja's temperament and his contribution to the victory, especially when the target seemed challenging.

ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's Epic T20 World Cup Run-Chase Knock In Melbourne Against Pakistan Turns One

"At 200, with 60-70 runs still needed, it was a bit difficult. But you know, the temperament of Virat Kohli, chase master, was there. But for Jadeja to come in and the way he played was really heartening for all the Indian fans," Gavaskar added.

Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand scored his fifth ton in ODIs, becoming the first Kiwi batter to score a hundred against India in an ODI World Cup match in 48 years. However, Shami's five-wicket haul ensured New Zealand was bowled out for 273.