On Sunday (Sept 22), Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first in the 3rd T20I against South Africa. It was a bit of surprise as the pitch at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium looked perfect for chasing.
During the pitch report, Sunil Gavaskar said that the pitch was perfect for chasing. “The surface looks dry; there are a few cracks as well. So it might help the spinners. This (M.Chinnaswamy Stadium) is generally a high-scoring ground unless the pitch plays slow. It’s a good chasing ground as well. So you might be tempted to bowl first.”
But captain Kolhi has some long term plans for the team. “Going to bat. Looks like a nice wicket. I know it’s a ground where teams chase well. Even in the IPL, it’s a chasing ground,” said the Indian skipper at the toss.
“Heading into the World T20 though, we need to improve areas as a team. We know we’re one of the top chasing teams. Batting first is something we’re also looking to strengthen. Results are always a priority, but we need to get out of our comfort zone also. Come the World Cup; toss is not in your control, you should be able to perform whether batting or bowling first. Have a few plans in mind, will be looking to executing those. Unchanged team,” he added.
Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle was also surprised by Kohli’s decision. “Big surprise already in Bengaluru. India win the toss and bat. Good chasing ground, possibility of dew. But Kohli says he wants to put some pressure on his own team and be ready for a day when they have to bat first in these conditions,” tweeted Harsha.
Big surprise already in Bengaluru. India win the toss and bat. Good chasing ground, possibility of dew. But Kohli says he wants to put some pressure on his own team and be ready for a day when they have to bat first in these conditions
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) September 22, 2019
