India vs Australia: “Natarajan can be a great asset for India in the World Cup next year,” says Virat Kohli

India vs Australia: “Natarajan can be a great asset for India in the World Cup next year,” says Virat Kohli
T Natarajan
T Natarajan

The rise of T Natarajan in the world of cricket has been one of the most heart-warming stories of the year. From playing in all 16 of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) to being chosen as a net bowler before coming into the squad and playing a key role in India’s wins, Natarajan well and truly has established himself as one who is here to stay.

The left-arm pacer came into his own in the T20I series against Australia picking up 6 wickets at an economy of under 7 troubling even the best of batsmen. His performances now hold him in good stead in the T20I side for India especially with the 2021 T20 World Cup in India looming.

‘Natarajan is composed, hardworking and humble’ – Kohli

T Natarajan celebrates a wicket during the 2nd T20I

Speaking about the rise of Natarajan in a virtual press conference, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said, “Natarajan special mention for him as in absence of Bumrah and Shami. He is been the guy who has stood up and really delivered under pressure. And it’s an outstanding fact that he playing his first game at the international level.”

“He looks very composed and is a very hard-working guy and very humble too. I wish him all the best and a left-arm bowler is always an asset on the field and if he can be consistent it will be a great thing for us heading into the World Cup next year,” he added.

Kohli also expressed satisfaction with the Indian teams’ efforts in the tour so far. “The fact that this was the squad who haven’t had so much exposure at the international level from that point of view it was a very nice performance especially after losing first two ODIs we came back nicely in the third and showed belief,” Kohli said.

“And we carried that momentum in the first T20Is fighting back till the last minute. Even today’s game was also a close encounter. I think the stand out is the guys are not giving up. Someone is putting up their hand every time and making an impact for the team,” he signed off.

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