ICC Cricket World Cup 2019: Sunil Gavaskar opens up about Virat Kohli's batting position in ODI side

What's the story?

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that the 'best' batsman in the world, Virat Kohli, needs no protection in his position in the batting line-up. Having said that, he also opined that Kohli should be used at number 4 at times, depending on the conditions and situation of the game.

In case you didn't know...

Kohli is arguably the best willow-wielder going around at the moment across all formats of the game. He has amassed a staggering 39 centuries in ODI cricket, with 32 of those coming when he has walked in to bat at number 3.

But recently, the national side's coach, Ravi Shastri, affirmed that Kohli could be used at number 4 in order to maintain flexibility in the batting order. So far in ODIs, while batting at number 4, he has struck seven 100s.

The heart of the matter

The fact that Ambati Rayudu is a handy batsman when tasked with anchoring an innings can prove to be a massive asset for India, who would then be keeping their best batsman intact if wickets tumble early on.

Sunil Gavaskar offered his opinion on the same, affirming:

"The best batsman in the world needs no protection in the batting order. But sometimes you have to assess the conditions. There could be a lot of swing and movement in the air in England... and if the opposition makes over 350 and India lose the first wicket early, then Kohli could be protected and sent at No.4."

He continued:

"This is the very reason why it is really important for India to select its third opener who is technically sound. Because the ball swings and seams around in England. But if the conditions are not very different then Kohli should bat at No.3."

That would also release the pressure off Kohli's shoulders in the World Cup, as one can't expect him to perform under pressure all the time.

What's next?

Prior to the premier cricketing event, there's still a lot of cricket to be played, as far as India's schedule is concerned. The squads for the home series against Australia were announced on 15 February, with Kohli asked to spearhead the side for all five one-dayers.

The home series against the Aussies comprises two T20Is and 5 ODIs.