Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has ignited a fresh debate in the cricketing world with his pointed comments about modern-day batting greats and the challenges of different formats. His remarks, specifically targeting Virat Kohli's career path, have drawn a firm response from current Indian captain Shubman Gill.
Manjrekar's Controversial Take on Kohli and ODI Cricket
In a recent discussion, Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his disappointment with Virat Kohli's decision to continue playing One Day Internationals after retiring from Test cricket. Manjrekar suggested that by stepping away from the longest format, the former India captain had chosen an "easier path."
He contrasted Kohli's choice with contemporaries like Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson, who are, in his view, cementing their legacies in Test cricket. Manjrekar went further to label ODI cricket as "the easiest format" for a top-order batter, a statement that has become the core of the ongoing controversy.
Shubman Gill's Firm Rebuttal Ahead of NZ Series
The timing of Manjrekar's comments is significant, coinciding with India's preparation for a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, set to begin in Baroda on Sunday, January 11. Addressing the media in a press conference, captain Shubman Gill directly countered the notion that any format is easy.
"I don't think any format is easy," Gill stated emphatically. He used the Indian team's own record to bolster his argument, pointing out that India hasn't won an ODI World Cup since 2011. "If it was that easy, he would be winning the World Cup every second year," Gill remarked. He emphasized that winning major ICC tournaments requires immense resilience, persistence, and determination.
Gill on the Invaluable Role of Kohli and Rohit
Beyond defending the format, Gill also spoke glowingly about the role of senior stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the current squad. He described Rohit as "one of the greatest openers of all time in ODIs" and Kohli as "one of the greatest ODI batsmen ever."
Gill highlighted their importance to the team's leadership group, especially during high-pressure situations in a match. "Having these two people in your team makes your life a lot easier," he said. He explained that a captain can seek their invaluable input based on their vast experience, which is a crucial asset for any leader.
As India gears up to face a new-look New Zealand side, all eyes will be on how the team, led by Gill and powered by veterans Kohli and Rohit, performs. The series promises high-quality cricket, even as the debate around the relative difficulty of formats continues off the field.
