Michael Vaughan unhappy with James Anderson over Virat Kohli incident
It’s a matter of speculation as to why James Anderson made the comments about Virat Kohli’s ‘technical deficiencies’ during the Mumbai Test. Was it just a fast-bowler making a casual comment after 3 long-tiring days of a Test that hadn’t gone in his favour? Was it in jest with the series in India finally taking its toll? Did he not adjust to Mumbai after a week’s break in the Middle-East?
Or was it a calculated move to ruffle Kohli’s feathers? While the intent behind the move might be questioned, the fallout is there for one and all to see. Not only did it come to a boiling point on day 5 of the Test, when Ashwin decided to take matters into his own hand, going out of character, to show Anderson how upset he was, but, the matter has since exploded.
Tabloids have come up with conspiracy stories over what Ashwin might have or might not have said, legends have weighed in with their thoughts, Kohli had a laugh about it, showing how much he has matured since his early ‘Delhi-boy’ aggressive days, but now a former English captain has had his say.
Michael Vaughan is doing a great job as an expert during the ongoing tour and has had a close eye on all the matters concerning the series. He was absolutely disappointed with the fast bowler’s words and actions, given that the latter is a man of such experience and such stature.
“Jimmy came out last night and showed no experience with the Indian press. You know what you’re getting with the Indian press – they’ll make one small comment into a huge headline. For him to say Virat’s technique’s not changed and it’s just the conditions here that suit his style of play – it’s so naive.”
It is no secret that Virat Kohli was Anderson’s bunny on the 2014 summer in England, but India’s captain has definitely had the better of him in India, especially with his double-century in Mumbai and he has rendered Anderson ineffective.
The 34-year-old from Burnley had earlier gone on a startling attack on the Indian captain at a very inopportune time, with his side on the brink of going 3 – 0 down in the 5-match Test series.
The comments weren’t well appreciated and while Anderson felt the heat right then on day 5 in Mumbai, with the teams moving on to Chennai next, he might have to gear up to face a lot more flack.