IND v WI 2018: Virat Kohli raises concern over the new water break regulation

"It was quite difficult for the guys not to drink water for close to 40-45 minutes while batting and on the field as well" - Kohli

Kohli notched up his 24th Test ton amidst scorching heat in Rajkot | AP

India skipper Virat Kohli has expressed his concern over the new ICC rule which implies that water breaks will be permitted only at the fall of a wicket or in-between overs, with unscheduled breaks at the umpires’ discretion.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony after India’s resounding innings and 272 runs victory over the West Indies in Rajkot, Kohli hoped that the match officials will keep in mind the external factors such as heat while taking calls on unscheduled drinks intervals during a Test match.

Amidst scorching heat on each of the three day’s play at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, players from both sides were constantly under the supervision of umpires while asking for drinks breaks.

“That was a bit to do with the umpires pushing us as well, with these new rules coming in of not drinking too much water. These things should be considered according to the conditions we play in,” Kohli quoted after the match when asked of improved over-rates.

“The guys really struggled in this game because of those few changes. It was quite difficult for the guys not to drink water for close to 40-45 minutes while batting and on the field as well. I’m sure they’ll look into this,” he added.

The Indian captain also highlighted how difficult it is for a fast bowler to bowl in these conditions.

“We wanted to have the extra guy because of the heat factor. Four bowlers would have struggled in these conditions and we just wanted to give them bit more breaks in between and still have quality bowling coming at the opposition,” Kohli concluded.

The second Test between India and West Indies will be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad from October 12.

 
 

By Salman Anjum - 07 Oct, 2018

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