Sure India will win plenty more in the future: Kane Williamson hails Virat Kohli's team

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson was full of praise for Team India skipper Virat Kohli’s current side, terming it as a formidable unit. Williamson further stated that the Indian team’s defeat in the final of the maiden edition of the World Test Championship (WTC), was not an indication of the quality of the Asian giants. The Black Caps defeated Team India by a margin of eight wickets, in a rail-curtailed 6-day encounter in Southampton.

“Expecting every result was realistic”

“For us it was very much going in the day, expecting every result was realistic and trying to do as well as we could. Nothing different from the last few days and see how games unfurl and opportunity arises. It was great to take early wickets on that, that set up more chances of result on that day. India team counter-attacked after that, India had a fair shot too. Surface was offering to bowlers. It was intense for u. In sport, when you have tournaments and finals, these are set up in a way to provide excitement and opportunity in a one-off game. It never really tells the whole picture. As we know, this Indian team is a formidable side. They truly are a great side,” said Williamson in an interaction with India Today.

“We are proud to have achieved a win in this match but that takes nothing away from the quality that India had in their team, how strong they are year in and year out. I have got absolutely no doubt they will win plenty, plenty more. You feel the quality every time you come up against them. They are relentless with the ball. The seam bowling depth in the world is probably the best in the world. Their spinners, they are incredible bowlers and the batting perhaps need no mention, it’s world class. And the depth they have been creating. It’s the passion that the country brings to the sport. Although I play for a different country, I think we can all appreciate the passion they bring to the game. It’s rewarding for everybody that plays the game,” he added.

“Virat and I are mates”

Williamson further discussed the relationship he shares with the Team India skipper, stating that the two players have known each other for a long time.

“Virat and I have known each other for a long time and we are mates. It’s always a great part of sports as you get the opportunity to meet people all around the world and form different friendships. Different experiences that you have either together or against each other. And often you find a bit of common ground and share a few common interests,” said the New Zealand captain.

The two players will be seen facing off when Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 resumes, with Williamson leading SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Virat Kohli the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The New Zealand cricketer replaced David Warner following a string of poor performances by the franchise before the edition was suspended. Williamson will be optimistic of spearheading a turnaround in fortunes.