Will Virat Kohli play the Asia Cup in Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 15 to 28? After the second Test at Lord’s on Sunday, Kohli talked about the workload in the last three years and that he will be able to play the third Test at Trent Bridge with 100 per cent ability as a batsman, but with lesser intensity as a fielder due to a nagging lower back.
Dean Jones who launched Star Sports ’ Unimoni Asia Cup 2018 campaign at the broadcaster’s studio was optimistic of Kohli’s participation in the Asia Cup.
Jones said: “Workload is important for players. Knowing Virat he would play the tournament on one leg if he has to on most occasions.
“The Asia Cup is a prestigious tournament. He would like to be there, I don’t know how bad his back is. Someone has to straighten it out.
“The good thing is that, if he doesn’t get there for whatever reason, there is an opportunity for another guy to stand up. There is the Australian tour later on; but as a cricketer, he’s just got to say let’s get through with the Test series (against England), then the Asia Cup and the series in Australia.
Three major things
“You have got to put things in priority. I think for Virat, the three major things would be, winning the World Cup, series in Australia and the Asia Cup.”
Jones and Star Sports CEO Gautam Thakar said that the Asia Cup is a rivalry across Asian neighbours, with the potential for India and Pakistan to meet on three occasions, including the final.
“I think World Cups and Asia Cups are won by bowlers. And I believe Afghanistan has a strong bowling line-up in Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. And on those pitches in the UAE, they could create problems.”
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