(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] England seasoned pacer James Anderson, now in the twilight of his illustrious career, expressed his sentiments over the absence of India’s premier batsman, Virat Kohli, in the ongoing five-match Test series.
Initially slated to play the first two Tests, Kohli withdrew himself from the series citing personal reasons. His absence persisted throughout the third and fourth Tests, and notably, his name was omitted from the squad for the fifth and final match, scheduled to be played from 7th March at Dharamsala.
Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, joyfully announced the birth of their second child, which explained his extended absence from the mouth watering series.
Reflecting on Kohli’s absence, Anderson expressed disappointment, highlighting the fierce battles they have waged on the cricket field over the years. Acknowledging Kohli’s stature as one of the best in the world, Anderson stressed the importance of testing oneself against the players of his caliber.
“Yeah, you always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that,” Anderson said as quoted on JioCinema.
Acknowledging Kohli’s global impact, the 41-year-old Anderson noted that while English fans might breathe a sigh of relief, the absence of cricket’s modern-day great dampens the thrill of the series.
“I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But from our point of view you want to test yourself, you want to come up against the best and he’s been someone who I’ve found really challenging to bowl at over the years and it’s a shame he’s not been playing,” Anderson added.
Delving into the historical rivalry between Kohli and Anderson, statistics reveal a compelling narrative. Anderson has dismissed the Indian maestro seven times in Test cricket, while Kohli has amassed 305 runs against Anderson at an impressive average of 43.57.
As Anderson’s career winds down, it seems probable that this tour marks his final appearance in India, leaving behind a legacy defined by his mastery of the craft and memorable encounters with cricketing giants like Kohli.