Rahul Dravid ridicules speculations of Virat Kohli being denied rest for Lanka series

Looking at the last three seasons of Indian cricket, some of the players have been featuring in all formats of the game round the clock throughout the 12 months. As a result, the gruelling schedule might result in burnout of some of the key players.

As a result, there have been reports emerging that Virat Kohli would be rested throughout the entirety of the Sri Lankan series at home in Nov-Dec, ahead of the all-important South African tour.

Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid, who is currently coaching the India ‘A’ and U-19 teams, dismissed all speculations of Indian captain Kohli being denied rest for the Lankan series.

“Rotations are needed. There are a lot of matches being played, so you need to rotate the players. I think the management is taking right decision (in terms of rotating the players),” affirmed Rahul Dravid during the FICCI’s felicitation programme for women cricketers Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami.

“Everyone needs rest. He (Kohli) will get rest when he wants. When and which series (Kohli will take) rest will be decided by the team management, physios and physical trainers (after discussing with the player). Probably currently he doesn’t need rest. He may be rested later. I don’t know why there is so much of discussion and controversy,” further added the 44-year old according to Business Standards.

On reduction of bat sizes

One of the major changes in cricketing laws being adopted lately is the size of the bats. The thick willows of the likes of David Warner and MS Dhoni are now something for the past.

“It is a good decision though the change isn’t very drastic as only a few players use bats which do not come under new rules. It is the quality pitch and ground which matter in cricket (more than the bat),” concluded Dravid.