A win versus Sri Lanka in Mohali with fans cheering from the stands would be India’s perfect present to former captain Virat Kohli in his 100th Test appearance, feels pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
The first Test of the two-match series begins on Friday. The Indian cricket board (BCCI) has reversed an earlier decision and allowed spectators inside the stadium. The number has been capped at 50 per cent of the stadium’s capacity.
Kohli too would be more than happy if Team India come up trumps in his milestone Test match, Bumrah said. “If we win this Test, there cannot be a better present than that for Virat.
“As a cricketer, he too would want to give his best and hope for the best result. Obviously, his 100th Test appearance is a special occasion, but our focus is also on the series and winning it. And that’s something which will make Virat happier, no matter who contributes to our victory.
“A win is what makes all of us happy, so we’ll try our best to emerge victorious,” Bumrah said on Tuesday.
The 28-year-old Bumrah is among those who made their Test debut under Kohli. Bumrah established himself as the leader of the bowling attack, especially in overseas conditions.
In most of the overseas Tests, especially those that India won under Kohli’s captaincy, Bumrah’s contribution has been significant. Kohli remained India’s full-time Test captain from the Sydney Test versus Australia in January 2015 until the end of the series in South Africa this January.
Kohli still has a lot to contribute though he’s no longer captain, Bumrah emphasised.
“Playing 100 Tests is a testimony of Virat’s hard work and dedication. It’s a great occasion and he has contributed a lot to the success of the Indian team and will contribute a lot more in the future as well.
“So yes, it’s another feature in his cap. I just wish him the best and congratulate him for the achievement,” Bumrah said.
Celebrations later
That the game will not be held behind closed doors should be good news for Kohli and his teammates, but as far as the celebrations are concerned, they will happen only after the game gets over.
“It’s a big game for Virat, of course. But at the moment, our focus is to win the Test match and after that mission is accomplished, only then will all the proceedings happen and whatever has to be done will be done thereafter,” Bumrah said.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a statement on Tuesday that fans would be able to witness the historic moment of Kohli playing his 100th Test. Punjab Cricket Association confirmed that the Test match will be held at 50 per cent stadium capacity.
“The first Test between India and Sri Lanka to be played at the Punjab Cricket Stadium in Mohali will not be held behind closed doors,” Shah said in the statement.
“The decision to allow spectators into the ground is one taken by State Cricketing Associations and in present circumstances, is based on various factors. I have spoken with the PCA office-bearers and they have confirmed that cricket fans will be able to witness the historic moment of Virat Kohli playing his 100th Test match.”
