Kohli should bat only if necessary: Gavaskar

New delhi : Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar today advised an injured Virat Kohli not to take a risk by coming out to bat in the ongoing Test unless it was absolutely necessary. Gavaskar said since the Ranchi pitch was still good for batting, the Indians should be able to get close to the Australian total without Kohli’s contribution.
“Look, the injury may not be very serious. But he is a man who loves to be on the field, and the fact that he was not on the field means that the injury is a little more than what is given out (to be). So, he can rest completely… he can be fit for the next Test,” Gavaskar said.
“Kohli should come out to bat only if it is needed, only if there’s a dire situation like a sudden collapse and India need to ensure that Australian do not take a big lead. Only then Kohli should come out to bat.”
Kohli could not field after landing awkwardly on his right shoulder while trying to save a boundary in the post-lunch session on Day 1 of the Test.
Gavaskar said the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Murali Vijay and Ajinkya Rahane can build a big innings for India as the pitch was still good to bat on.
“It is still a good pitch, there is not much turn, the ball is not seaming or bouncing awkwardly. India will need to bat the whole day tomorrow and that will give Kohli a full day to rest,” said Gavaskar.