Joe Root, Dinesh Karthik and Virat Kohli (Video Grab)
NEW DELHI: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has chosen Virat Kohli over Joe Root as the best Test batter of the current generation, despite Root’s superior statistical record. Karthik’s preference is based on his close association with Kohli and the confidence he has in Kohli’s performance under high-pressure situations.
Karthik shared his views on Cricbuzz, recognizing Root’s impressive statistics but expressing a personal bias towards Kohli due to their long-standing association.He highlighted Kohli’s ability to excel in crucial moments and big series.
“Numbers will tell you it’s Joe Root, but my heart, the fact that he (Kohli) is someone that I’ve seen play in close quarters for the longest time now, over a decade. I know how he loves playing those big moments, big series. And if somebody asks him questions, he will come back to you with answers so strong that you will be like, ‘Wow, why did I even ask that question’,” Karthik explained.
Root, who is in excellent form, recently surpassed Alastair Cook to become England’s leading century-maker in Test cricket with 34 centuries. Root has accumulated 12,377 runs from 145 Tests at an average of 50.93, ranking him ahead of his contemporaries in the “Fab 4” – Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Kohli.
On the other hand, Virat Kohli has faced a decline in form recently, with his last century recorded in July 2023 against the West Indies. Despite this, Karthik’s admiration for Kohli is rooted in the latter’s ability to perform when it is most needed.
“If I were given a choice of who would bat for my life, it would be Kohli. No doubt,” Karthik added, emphasizing Kohli’s dependability under pressure.
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Kohli has scored 8,848 runs from 113 Tests and has made 29 centuries. He is often praised for his aggressive style and leadership in key matches. Despite recent challenges, Karthik’s support reflects a widespread belief in Kohli’s capability to win matches.
