WTC final | Michael Holding rates Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson equally in 'style and entertainment'

West Indies great Michael Holding has said that India will have an advantage going into the World Test Championship irrespective of the conditions in Southampton as they have all their bases covered in the bowling department. He said that the pitches at the Ageas Bowl have provided assistance to spinners in the past and hence India may consider playing two spinners if the overhead conditions will be bright during the game.

"Obviously, conditions will play a role. But the bowling attack India have, it will help them even if conditions remain bright. And if it’s sunny throughout, they can even afford to play two spinners. They have that advantage," Holding, an integral part of the fearsome West Indies pace quartet of the 1970s and 80s, told The Telegraph (India).

"Even if conditions are damp, I still think India will include one spinner, which could be Ashwin as he can contribute well with his batting too. The pitch there does offer turn for spinners, which will be to India’s liking."

He commended Virat Kohli for the value of runs he brings to the table for the Indian team but also suggested that the team is just not about Kohli as they produced a series win against Australia without him.

"Kohli’s someone who always wants to get runs, but even when he’s not scoring, India are still winning Test matches. He wasn’t there for three matches in Australia, yet India won the series. So I don’t think India should be too worried about him,” Holding added.

He too like many other former greats could not resist the temptation of comparing the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson. He said that while Kohli’s passion and animation lift the spirits of his teammates at crucial and tough junctures of the game, Williamson’s calmness and assurances help his teammates a relaxed atmosphere on the field.

"I would say both Kohli and Kane are right up there when it comes to style and entertainment. Having said that, style and entertainment are not everything as productivity also counts. That way, Steve Smith plays a vital role as he can produce the runs. So is Joe Root,” Holding added.

"A calmer captain can help his teammates stay more relaxed on the field. As a result, they can see to it that they aren’t too tense. At the same time, though, an expressive/animated captain could be required to lift the spirits of his team, especially during tough and critical situations."

Holding has been associated with Sky Sports in the UK for a long time and will be doing commentary in the WTC final scheduled to be played from June 18.