Ind Vs Nz: India is dominating New Zealand in the ongoing second Test which is being held in Mumbai. Keeping aside Ajaz Patel’s 10-fer, there is nothing significant about New Zealand’s play in this match. But what surprised many is Virat Kohli’s decision of not enforcing the follow-on and opting to bat once again in the second innings. Popular cricketer and analyst Dinesh Karthik expressed his opinion on Virat’s decision.
India made a total of 325 runs in the first innings. Ajaz Patel scalped all the 10 wickets of the home team. However, New Zealand batters failed to sustain the momentum given by Ajaz. They were completely dismantled by the Indian bowlers. Thus, they got all-out for mere 62 runs. Everyone expected Kohli to enforce follow-on because there was a massive lead of 263 runs. But the Indian skipper opted to come in to bat first.
Dinesh Karthik opined that Kohli might have taken the decision in order to boost his batters’ confidence ahead of the upcoming South Africa tour. In an interaction with the Cricbuzz, Karthik said, “I get the feeling that you’ve got to understand that there’s obviously a tour of South Africa to follow. You won’t get extra points if you win in three or four days. I just feel that the more you bat, the worse wicket is going to get.”
“So, it will be easier for India to roll over New Zealand in the second innings,” he further added. As of now, India’s score in the second innings stands at 169/2 and the lead is at 436 runs. Kohli may declare the innings anytime soon.