Virat Kohli is a very dangerous player: Yusuf Pathan

33-year old batsman Yusuf Pathan has become the latest to endorse India’s chances in the upcoming World T20. Pathan also said that Virat Kohli will be key for the Indians in their quest to clinch the World T20 crown they had won in 2007. Yusuf Pathan, who was part of the side then, began by recognizing the form of the Indian side.

“In T20I India are consistently doing well. And if you take look at India’s recent tour to Australia, the series against Sri Lanka and the Asia Cup, we have done exceptionally well.

Despite the favorites tag, Pathan sounded confident when he said that the Indians will live up to the expectations thrust on them.

“No doubt India are favourites to win the World Cup. In home conditions, India always has an upper hand and they are consistently performing well in this kind of situations. So this time also they will live up to the expectations,” he said.

Speaking on current vice-captain Virat Kohli, Pathan said that he is a dangerous player and an absolute treat to watch. Kohli finished the 2014 edition of the World T20 as the highest run-getter. He has been in exceptional form of late as well with brilliant performances with the bat in the tour of Australia and the Asia Cup.

“Virat Kohli is a very dangerous player, especially in T20s. It’s a treat to watch Kohli playing. Both are equally dangerous in their own way and have the ability to single-handedly win a match for their team,” Pathan, who plays for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, added.

Despite the favorites tag, the Indians will certainly face tough competition in the tournament, having been drawn into a group with the likes of Australia and New Zealand. Pathan however, said that it was all about the Indians giving their best shot on the day.

“It’s difficult to say who will perform well and who will not. Basically, it is all about giving your best shot during critical situations and win the game for the team. When a team is playing, nobody cares whether it is the youngsters or the senior players who are doing well. It is all about how tough you are at the given situation.”

Finally, Pathan said that he will always cherish the moment India won the World Cup in 2011, having been part of the side.

“There are many moments to cherish in my life but nothing can match Team India winning the 2011 ICC World Cup. It was something very special that happened to us and I still don’t have words to describe the feelings,” he signed off.