Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal has emphasized the pivotal role of Test cricket in molding Virat Kohli into the prolific batsman he is today. In a recent interview, Lal stated, “I strongly believe that Test cricket is all about your perseverance. Kohli is a product of Test cricket.”
Lal’s assertion underscores the significance of the longest format of the game in developing a player’s technical proficiency, mental resilience, and adaptability. He elaborated that the challenges posed by Test cricket, such as enduring long innings and facing varied pitch conditions, equip players with the skills necessary to excel across all formats. According to Lal, “A good Test cricketer can adapt to T20 cricket so easily” due to their solid technique and understanding of shot selection and timing.
Virat Kohli’s career trajectory serves as a testament to this belief. With a foundation built in Test cricket, Kohli has seamlessly transitioned his prowess to One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20s (T20s), becoming one of the most formidable batsmen in contemporary cricket. His ability to anchor innings in Tests and accelerate scoring in limited-overs formats highlights the versatility that Lal attributes to a grounding in Test cricket.
The emphasis on Test cricket is not merely about individual success but also about preserving the essence and integrity of the sport. Lal pointed out that while T20 cricket offers entertainment and commercial benefits, it sometimes prioritizes aggression over skill. In contrast, Test cricket demands a comprehensive display of a player’s abilities, challenging both physical endurance and mental fortitude. This format, according to Lal, remains the pinnacle of the sport, where true mastery is both tested and showcased.
In line with this perspective, Lal expressed his satisfaction with senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participating in domestic first-class cricket, such as the Ranji Trophy. He remarked, “I’m so happy that all these players are going to play first class. You need to play matches in the tournament which has made you the player.” Lal believes that the involvement of seasoned cricketers in domestic circuits not only aids in their personal form and fitness but also serves as an invaluable learning experience for emerging talents.
The broader implication of Lal’s insights is a call to cricketers and cricketing boards to uphold the sanctity of Test cricket. By fostering talent through the rigors of the longer format, the cricketing fraternity can ensure that players are well-rounded and equipped to tackle the diverse demands of the sport. As Lal aptly highlights, the perseverance and skills honed in Test cricket lay a robust foundation for success across all formats, as exemplified by Virat Kohli’s illustrious career.