Chasing a modest total of 323 against West Indies in the first ODI, India lost Shikhar Dhawan early. Kohli joined Rohit Sharma and the duo made the run-chase look too easy with a stand of 246. Surprisingly, Rohit Sharma played the anchor role while Kohli took over the batting.
Among the top three, I’ve preferred the anchor role, but today I felt good and I communicated with Rohit that he should play the anchor role,” said Kohli in the post-match presentation.
When I got out, he (Rohit) took over and Rayudu played the anchor. And I’ve always enjoyed batting with him. It’s our fifth or sixth double-hundred partnership. When we both bat like that its good fun out there and we know the team will benefit from it,” said Kohli
This was Kohli’s first ODI since July as he decided to sit out the Asia Cup. He is also now within 81 runs of reaching the 10,000-run mark in ODI cricket. “I have a few years left to enjoy the sport. Playing for the country is a matter of pride, so you can’t take any game lightly. And I like being honest to the sport you love. You’re playing for India, not everyone gets to do that, so that needs to be respected,” said the Indian captain.
