Jeff Thomson backs Australia to tackle Virat Kohli

Jeff Thomson, the former Aussie quick, known to decimate the batsmen he bowled to, has backed Australian bowlers to tackle the already-legendary Indian batsman, Virat Kohli. Thomson feels there are ways to go past even the best batsmen in the world and is confident of the Aussies figuring it out ways in order to dismiss the Indian captain.

In today’s era, the game seems to have changed a big deal as compared to the cricket of ’80s, ’90s or even the early 2000s, with batsmen like David Warner, AB de Villiers or for that matter, Virat Kohli himself, hitting bowlers – pacers and spinners – out of the stadium at will. All this amazes the former Aussie quick. Thomson, who has 255 international wickets under his belt, however, feels there are ways to tackle even the best in the business.

The 68-year-old, who featured in 51 Tests in the Baggy Greens and took 200 Test wickets, is in Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital, for the inaugural Ekamra Sports Literary Festival. He was the first sports personality to walk up to the dais and share his thoughts.

He is obviously brilliant

Jeff was speaking on the topic ‘death of a Test fast bowler’, when he was peppered with questions on Kohli. Everyone wanted to know what ploys can bowlers make use of to stop the Indian run-machine.  “Until I go out there (and bowl), I won’t know,” came Thomson’s reply according to the Times of India.

“He (Kohli) is obviously playing brilliant, but there are ways to tackle top batsmen. I am not saying (for certain) you can control them, but just don’t let them score for one or two overs and they may make a mistake,” he shared his thoughts. I hope the rest of the team plays as well as him (Kohli) against our bowlers,” the Aussie legend said, on being asked if India can do well on their upcoming tour of Australia.

India will tour Australia for 4 Tests, 3 ODIs and as many T20Is, starting later this month. After being crushed 4-1 by England in Tests, earlier this year, Kohli’s men will have a point or two to prove on their next overseas tour.

~Written by Nahmat Maeraj