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Kohli expects youngsters to step up

Last updated on: December 23, 2019 10:47 IST

'We feel we have it in us to win series overseas, not just the odd game. We are in the process of trying out people, see how they react under pressure. Whether people want to accept it or not, the younger people will have to step up in a few years'

India players celebrate with the trophy after winning the three-match ODI series against West Indies in Cuttack on Sunday

IMAGE: India players celebrate with the trophy after winning the three-match ODI series against West Indies in Cuttack on Sunday. Photograph: BCCI

India captain Virat Kohli has one eye on the ICC T20 World Cup, but he is also looking beyond that, saying on Sunday that his team's "younger people" will need to step up in the near future.

Kohli anchored a tricky chase before Shardul Thakur showed nerves of steel to guide India to a series-clinching four-wicket victory over the West Indies in the third ODI in Cuttack.

 

Kohli made 85 off 81 balls but no less important was Thakur's six-ball 17, which helped India cross the line with eight balls to spare.

"Having done (chasing successfully) it so many times, you obviously have a bit more calmness and you understand how the dew is playing and all you need is a short partnership. From there the opposition usually crumbles," Kohli said at the post-match press conference.

"It was outstanding to see others finishing the game. Honestly, when I got out, I had a nervous phase, but I looked back at Jaddu and he looked confident. They just changed the game in three overs. Watching from outside is way more difficult."

Jadeja was unbeaten on 39 when the winning runs were scored. Openers K L Rahul and Rohit Sharma also scored fluent half-centuries.

Kohli also had a word of praise for his fast bowlers who have troubled the best of batsmen through the year.

"Having a bunch of fast bowlers who can bowl out any opposition anywhere -- them taking the attention away from the spinners in India is a huge achievement.

"We feel we have it in us to win series overseas, not just the odd game. We are in the process of trying out people, see how they react under pressure. Whether people want to accept it or not, the younger people will have to step up in a few years," the India skipper said.

Rohit Sharma praised his new opening partner KL Rahul and also Shardul Thakur for getting a pulled six off Sheldon Cottrell while under pressure.

"It was a decider, we wanted to win this game. We have always seen it in Cuttack, especially, it's a good batting track. We wanted to make runs upfront. I quite enjoyed Shardul's pull shot, even if it was a top edge."

They may have lost the series but West Indies skipper Kieron Pollard was content with the way his players fought.

"I don't think there is much to be disappointed actually. I'm very, very proud of the guys and yes we faltered a bit with the ball and in the field, but India yet again pushed us hard and showed why there are the number one team in the world," Pollard said.

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