Dilip Vengsarkar believes Virat Kohli will bounce back in the one-off Test against England

Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar has backed veteran India batter Virat Kohli, despite his rough patch. While it is noteworthy that Vengsarkar was the one who selected Kohli for the first time in the national team, he backed him too and believed Kohli will do well in the rescheduled fifth Test against England.

"I am sure because he (Kohli) is a world-class player. He's done well and is so fit. He is just not scoring in the T20s, but I think he'll come back strong, especially in the Test in England. He and Rohit Sharma, I expect big runs in England," said Vengsarkar.

However, Vengsarkar also praised India all-rounder Hardik Pandya for his strong comeback.

"The way he (Hardik) came back from injury is great. He must have worked very hard on his fitness. He did very well in the IPL, and as a captain he did well. (He is a) very fine all-rounder. He led from the front. He guided the team in his first major tournament as captain (of Gujarat Titans). An all-rounder plays an important role in any team," he said.

Hardik Pandya led the Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title this season where he played a key role by smashing 487 runs and picking up eight wickets as well. He then carried on his form into the T20I series against South Africa and was rewarded with the captaincy in the series against Ireland.

"I hope so because he (Umran) is a very exciting talent. He did well in the IPL and he deserves a chance as he looked the best bowler in the format. I hope he is on the plane and I am sure he will do well if given an opportunity," Vengsarkar further stated.

While the T20 World Cup is all set to be played in Australia in October-November this year, the series will play an important role in selecting players. And, the veteran has also opened up on the young pace sensation Umran Malik, who made headlines with his stunning pace and accuracy during the Indian Premier League where he played for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Umran picked up 22 wickets in 14 games for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2022 this year, but it is his ability to bowl consistently at 95 miles per hour that have caught the eyes of all.

"He (Umran) is young and raring to go. You must give an opportunity to someone who is in form. He is young, keen to play and hungry for success," concluded the former national chairman of selectors.