Virat Kohli does not need us, we need him: Bumrah
Bumrah, however, stressed that Kohli knows his cricket better than anyone else and that his experience of batting in these challenging conditions was essential from the team’s perspective.
Indian skipper Virat Kohli returned to the pitch amidst loud cheers from the Ranchi Test on the third day of the third Test of the India vs Australia series on Saturday.
Kohli had injured his shoulder while diving in the field on the first day and had spent the rest of the day in the dressing room with his shoulder heavily strapped. Fans had been worried that he might have done some serious damage, but a BCCI statement later in the day confirmed it was only a strain and nothing serious.
While the second day saw the strap come off and witnessed Kohli partake in some warm-up routines, doctors had advised him to rest his shoulder for a day at least. He remained in his India training jersey and while he looked cheerful, didn't take to the field as Australia posted a first-innings total of 451.
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On Saturday morning, Kohli had been seen practicing in the nets to spark rumours of a possible return to the crease, but no official confirmation was made.
And after Murali Vijay was dismissed on 83 by Stephen O’Keefe in what was the last ball before Lunch on Saturday, Kohli emerged from the dressing room post the break as the new batsman to accompany Cheteshwar Pujara (40*).
India are trailing Australia by 258 runs with 8 wickets in hand and Kohli’s return will be a big boost to the Indian side, who could do with a big innings from their captain.
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