Despite an ordeal performance and torment show with the bat in 2014 against England, Virat Kohli has become far more skillful cricketer in the past few years. Australia's legendary pace bowler, Glenn McGrath perceives that an in-form James Anderson can resist Virat Kohli to score runs.
"Kohli is a more experienced player now. Quality player, no doubt about that. But English conditions are very tough. When you have got a bowler like Jimmy Anderson, who is bowling well now, it is going to be hard work. You got to be prepared to work hard. Kohli is a quality player so I am looking forward to that contest," McGrath told media persons during an interaction.
Glenn McGrath made it clear that it would really tough for captain Kohli and if he fails to perform with the bat, he will give a chance to others to raise numerous questions regarding his form.
He further added "You always want your best batsman performing. However, it also gives another batsman a chance to put his hand up and there are still some quality batsmen there, some quality players there. If India is really depending on one player, they have got it wrong,"
India's top order Test batsman, Cheteshwar Pujara too had a bad run in four-day games in England, other batsmen really need to step up and perform their best, McGrath added.
"I have not seen what the conditions are like in the UK. Pujara, even though he hasn't got runs, he will be there. Just being used to the conditions, I think that will help him," he opined.
Glenn McGrath also suggested how the visitors bowling can make an impact over England in England. Specially Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah are the Indian horses that can make this series memorable.
McGrath further stated "they have got pretty good control. That's what you need, especially in England. The Dukes ball has a pronounced seam. If you get the ball in the right areas consistently, then you are going to do well. The ball will do a little bit, so yeah.. they will do well."
"I think a lot of it depends on how the players adapt. You got to adapt a lot quicker these days. During my time, we used to get a couple of tour matches. They will have to adjust and adapt quicker. Obviously, there aren't enough tour matches to really get used to the conditions. They will just have to rely on past experience," McGrath added.
On talking about his nation players Steve Smith and David Warner, the pace bowler feels one year ban was very cruel to them.
"To think they can get away with it, was very naive... getting caught and the way it was all handled and then the punishment, it is quite extreme," he opined.
He feels Steve Smith and David Warner can come back stronger than ever after their ball-tampering scandal.
"Everyone makes mistakes. I think Steve Smith will come back a better player, a better person. Same for Davey Warner. Davey might find it a little tougher. Australia needs quality players in the team," he added.
On speaking about if incidents like ball-tampering can stop ever in cricket, the pace bowler thought, "The umpires are in a good position. They can see what is happening. If anyone gets caught, the punishment may be a bit harsher".
