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'We Have A Wrong-Footed Inswinger Menace'- Dravid Hints At Kohli Bowling Vs SA

image-lok30t6vVirat Kohli bowled vs Bangladesh [AP]

Indian team head coach Rahul Dravid acknowledged the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is sidelined for the remainder of the 2023 World Cup due to injury has left the Indian team without a sixth bowling option. 

In a light-hearted manner, Dravid mentioned Virat Kohli as a "wrong-footed inswinger menace" who could contribute a few overs with the ball when needed.

Before the commencement of the 2023 World Cup, Indian captain Rohit Sharma had mentioned that if required, he and Kohli could contribute with their bowling skills. 

After Pandya's injury against Bangladesh, Kohli bowled three overs to complete Pandya's over, but it turned out to be the last time Kohli bowled in the tournament.

When asked about the absence of an extra bowling option in the playing XI following Pandya's injury, Dravid acknowledged the current lack of a sixth bowler but expressed confidence in Kohli's ability to step in when required. In a playful tone, Dravid also commented on Kohli's bowling action when responding to the question.

"Yes, we don't have the 6th bowling option, but we have a wrong-footed inswinger menace whom we can back for a few overs. He was close to bowl in the last game with the crowd pushing him," Dravid stated during a press conference in Bengaluru.

In Hardik Pandya's absence, Suryakumar Yadav has been playing as a specialist batter at number 6 in the last three games. While India strengthened their bowling lineup by including Mohammed Shami in place of Shardul Thakur, they still lack a dedicated sixth bowler to turn to in case of an emergency. 

As Dravid mentioned, Kohli might be called upon to contribute with the ball when required, particularly if one of the primary bowlers has an off day.

India remains unbeaten in the tournament, having won all seven ODIs, making them a strong contender. South Africa, with six wins under their belt, also appears to be a formidable team and a contender for the World Cup. Both teams will clash in a high-profile clash in Kolkata tomorrow (November 5).