IND vs ENG: R Ashwin Advises Struggling Virat Kohli, Backs Rohit Sharma’s Aggressive Approach

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Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested that Virat Kohli should act as a bridge between Rohit Sharma’s aggressive batting and India’s middle-order stability in the upcoming ODI series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Ashwin’s Advice for Virat Kohli

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir recently emphasized the need for the team to play aggressive and entertaining cricket in ODIs. Ashwin, however, believes that Kohli should not change his approach but instead serve as a link between the top-order’s attacking mindset and a stable finish.

Ashwin pointed out how Rohit Sharma’s aggressive intent played a huge role in India’s success in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. He believes Kohli should stick to his strengths while ensuring a smooth transition from the top-order hitters to the middle and lower-order batters.

“Rohit has adapted to the changing times and led from the front. He won’t take a step back from this approach. But India needs someone to bridge the gap between the aggressive batting at the top and the finishers. That person is Virat Kohli,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat.’

Kohli & Rohit Short on Runs

Both Kohli and Rohit will enter the England ODI series out of form. Despite playing domestic cricket, they have struggled to get runs. However, Ashwin remains confident that Kohli should not change his game.

“Virat is India’s most valuable player in ODIs. He was India’s top scorer in the 2023 World Cup. If he regains his form, it will be great for India. He doesn’t need to change his approach. ODIs allow batters to pace their innings, so there is no need to hurry,” Ashwin added.

India’s ODI Schedule

India will play three ODIs against England, starting on February 6 in Nagpur. After the series, the team will shift focus to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

India is placed in Group A alongside New Zealand, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. They will begin their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai.

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