Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced his strong belief in Virat Kohli’s batting prowess, suggesting that had Kohli been part of the ongoing India tour of England, he would have certainly made a significant impact with the bat. Ganguly’s remarks come amid discussions surrounding India’s batting performances and Kohli’s absence from the Test series.
In a recent media interaction, Ganguly said, “If Virat Kohli was playing in England, he would have definitely scored runs. He’s too good a player to not succeed in those conditions. Look at his past record in England, especially 2018 — he was magnificent.”
Kohli, who opted out of the England Test series due to personal reasons, has been one of India’s most prolific run-scorers across formats for over a decade. Despite a dip in form during parts of 2020–21, he has roared back to form in recent years, playing match-winning innings in both red and white-ball cricket. His absence in the current series has been deeply felt, particularly as India’s top order has struggled with consistency.
Ganguly, a former BCCI president and one of India’s most respected cricketing minds, emphasized the value of experience and temperament that someone like Kohli brings to tough overseas tours. “You need mentally tough players in England. Virat has seen it all. He knows how to fight through the tough phases, and those are the kind of innings that matter in English conditions.”
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Kohli’s 2018 tour of England remains a highlight of his Test career. After a dismal outing in 2014, the batting maestro returned to silence his critics, scoring 593 runs in five Tests at an average of 59.3, including two centuries and three fifties. It was a tour that redefined Kohli’s approach to Test cricket in seaming conditions.
On being asked if India is missing Kohli’s influence in the dressing room, Ganguly responded affirmatively. “Absolutely. Virat is a leader, even when he’s not captain. His energy, intensity, and mindset lift the team. A player like him makes a big difference, both in terms of skill and morale.”
With the World Test Championship final and other key series ahead, Ganguly also hinted that Kohli’s return will be crucial for India’s fortunes. He added, “He’s fit, he’s hungry, and he’s got the class. I have no doubt he’ll be back soon and scoring runs wherever he plays — whether it’s England, Australia, or India.”
As the cricketing world awaits Kohli’s return, Ganguly’s words reinforce what many fans and experts believe — that Virat Kohli remains one of the finest batsmen of this generation, and his presence on challenging tours like England could tilt the balance in India’s favor.