Having seen Virat Kohli gradually develop into an international prospect under his tenure as India’s coach, Gary Kirsten has praised the Test skipper’s leadership skills and an ability to inspire fellow team-mates. Currently in Jaipur to work with Rajasthan Cricket Academy (RCA), the 48-year old shared his thoughts on quite a few issues. However, he was non-committal in comparing Kohli’s approach to limited-overs captain MS Dhoni.
Kirsten quipped, “Virat has been a great captain for India. His talent was always unquestionable. He has led by example with his on-field performances. His leadership at the Test level has worked really well for the national team. The best part about Virat is that he looks so inspirational as a leader in the manner he walks in the field.”
He added, “Dhoni is a very good captain. I had thoroughly enjoyed working with Dhoni during my tenure as India coach. But since I have not watched the Indian team play all formats on a consistent basis, it will not be fair for me to compare Virat and Dhoni’s consistency levels.”
A veteran of 101 Tests and 185 ODIs, the South African had coaching stints with his home country as well as India after retiring from the game. Renowned for his meticulous demeanor, the left-hander played a vital part in both teams reaching the top of the Test table.
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Even though the proposed two-tier Test system was scrapped after deliberations, Kirsten believed, “I am fine either way as long as there is high-quality Test cricket. I don’t think it would be monotonous if some of the top nations play each other on a regular basis. But, whatever is best should be done.”
With Cricket South Africa setting targets to meet the controversial quota structure from their next assignment, several question marks have been raised on the Proteas‘ squad composition.
However, the stalwart believed, “I completely support the inclusive policy in national sporting teams. It gives equal opportunity and is truly representative of the values our great nation stands for. It is a bold step in a forward direction. It is a step that addresses the imbalances of past.”
He signed off by lauding RCA’s facilities and hoped, “It is wonderful to work with the Rajasthan Cricket Academy. I am here on a business venture. My high-performance academy will be helping the talented gen-next cricketers of Rajasthan get a taste of quality modern day coaching which look at the technical as well as the mental aspect of their game.”
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