Lara Encourages Today’s Players to Mirror Kohli’s Approach in Test
The art of Test cricket has evolved significantly over the years, with the introduction of new formats and technologies. However, there is no denying that the traditional techniques and strokes are still the backbone of the game. Former West Indies legend Brian Lara recently shared his thoughts on how modern-day players can succeed in Test cricket, and it’s not surprising that he looked towards India’s Virat Kohli for inspiration.
Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Lara reflected on how he would have adjusted his game in today’s era. “I look at guys like Virat Kohli, they don’t do much of that (reverse sweeps),” he said. Lara’s comments highlight the importance of adapting to the changing game while still retaining the essence of traditional cricket.
Kohli’s approach to Test cricket has been a subject of admiration and scrutiny over the years. The Indian captain has been criticized for being too aggressive and taking unnecessary risks, but his success rate in Test cricket is undeniable. Lara’s endorsement of Kohli’s approach is a testament to the fact that the former India captain has mastered the art of playing traditional cricket in the modern era.
Lara’s own career is a testament to his ability to adapt to different situations and opponents. The legendary batsman scored over 11,000 runs in Test cricket and is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. However, even Lara acknowledges that he would have had to adjust his game to succeed in today’s era.
One of the key aspects of Kohli’s game is his ability to stick to traditional strokes. Unlike many modern-day players, Kohli is not afraid to play conventional shots such as the cover drive, pull, and hook. This approach has served him well in Test cricket, where the ability to play traditional shots is still crucial.
Lara’s comments are a reminder that there is still a place for traditional cricket in the modern game. In an era where T20 cricket has become increasingly popular, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of hitting boundaries and taking wickets quickly. However, Test cricket requires a different set of skills and a more patient approach.
The ability to play traditional shots is not limited to Kohli alone. Other players such as Steve Smith, Alastair Cook, and Joe Root have also been successful in Test cricket by sticking to traditional strokes. These players understand that Test cricket is a game of patience and discipline, and that playing traditional shots is often the best way to accumulate runs and build partnerships.
Lara’s endorsement of Kohli’s approach is also a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to playing Test cricket. Each player has their own unique style and strengths, and what works for one player may not work for another. However, the ability to adapt to different situations and opponents is a key aspect of playing successful Test cricket.
In conclusion, Lara’s comments highlight the importance of sticking to traditional strokes in Test cricket. While the game has evolved significantly over the years, the traditional techniques and strokes are still the backbone of the game. Players like Kohli, Smith, Cook, and Root have been successful in Test cricket by sticking to traditional strokes, and it’s an approach that Lara believes can be adopted by modern-day players.
As the game continues to evolve, it’s essential that players remember the importance of traditional cricket. The ability to play traditional shots is still crucial in Test cricket, and players who can adapt to different situations and opponents will continue to thrive in the longest format of the game.
