India weak without Kohli: Yasir Arafat

Former Pakistan pacer Yasir Arafat has said Indian side is weaker without Virat Kohli.

Virat Kohli hails as one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era with remarkable achievements under his belt, was left at home for the upcoming Asia Cup. Under his absence, Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian side at the event.

Former pacer in an interview said It is no secret that Virat Kohli provides great strength to the Indian side. Whenever he performs to his potential, he pretty much snatches victory from the jaws of defeat.

So, with his absence from the squad, Pakistan will be breathing a sigh of relief that a player who absorbs most of the pressure for his team is not included in the line-up, but there is no doubt that India have some excellent players who are match-winners in their own right, he added.

“The conditions in the UAE will suit India as well and they have some very able spinners in their squad. Most of their players are also very experienced but all said and done, it would be fair to say that the Indian side will be weaker without the presence of Virat Kohli,” said the 36-year-old.

As for Pakistan, the 19th September encounter between the two rivals will definitely be a pressure-filled affair. Of course, Pakistan will be looking to put to good use the psychological advantage they gained by emphatically defeating India in the Champions Trophy final, he said.

“All in all, this will be a fantastic game for a full house to watch and something memorable for the players as well,” Yasir added.