Virat Kohli confirms Ajinkya Rahane to be Dhawan's opening partner in West Indies

On the eve of the first ODI of India’s tour to West Indies, there were many permutations and combinations going about India’s playing eleven. The most talked about position in the lineup was the opening slot. The Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, has brought an end to all speculations about the same in the pre-match press conference. In the absence of Rohit Sharma, who is rested, Kohli noted that it would be Ajinkya Rahane taking the role of the opener.

He noted that there is no doubt about the fact that he would be Shikhar Dhawan’s opening partner. Kohli cited that Rahane has done well in the capacity of the opener in the past as well. Hence, the position suits him. The Indian skipper went on to say that Rahane will open in all the five matches.

“We have Ajinkya who we had as a back-up opener in the Champions Trophy. He will start for sure with Shikhar Dhawan (in West Indies series). He is someone who has done well at the opener’s slot. He has batted in the middle order also but we see him to be more powerful in the opening slot, that is where he can play his game the best. So, during the course of all these five games, Ajinkya will open,” quoted Virat Kohli.

On the opposition

Talking about the tour, Virat Kohli sees it as an opportunity to excel. He noted that the players in the team are pumped up for the challenge and wish to put their best foot forward going into the game. They are not taking the opposition lightly at all. West Indies are currently placed at number 9 in the ICC ODI rankings. He further added that the players love coming to the Caribbean because of the chilled out atmosphere and the lively surroundings.

“In international cricket, every game is an opportunity for the players to go out and do something. It improves your confidence whenever you come out at the international level and play. It is not about taking any opposition lightly. You have to come out and play good consistent cricket. It is another series we are looking to play good cricket. I am absolutely certain that the players are committed to playing their best,” said the Indian captain.

“It is a lovely atmosphere to be a part of after a high-profile tournament like the Champions Trophy. It is great to be in a relaxing place. All the players are relaxed and are looking forward to some cricket in the West Indies where cricket is always enjoyed because of the way culture is here. It is pretty relaxed and you are at ease. As such, it is always a nice feeling coming here,” he added further.