Mitchell Johnson suggests Virat Kohli can't handle pressure
Sunday 27 March 2016 14:58, UK
Mitchell Johnson has questioned Virat Kohli's ability to handle pressure ahead of Australia's pivotal World T20 clash with India on Sunday.
The winner of this key Group 2 match in Mohali will progress to the semi-finals and, despite being retired, Johnson could not resist the opportunity to take a swipe at the 27-year-old batsman.
Kohli, whose T20 average is a remarkable 52.5 from 41 international matches, will be a marked man when the Aussies take to the field.
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However the 34-year-old Johnson, who retired from the international game in 2015, tweeted on Saturday: 'Went missing in WC semi last yr when it really counts.'
The former Australian fast bowler was referring to their World Cup semi-final meeting in Sydney last March, over 50 overs, when Kohli made just one run off 13 deliveries before being one of Johnson's two victims.
He was also replying to comments made by the Delhi-born player, who believes he will be prepared for any amount of sledging that may come his way at the hands of the Australians.
India have beaten Australia in each of their last five T20 meetings - including three this year - and Kohli said: "Debate on the field or not, it doesn't really matter to me. I'm pretty sure of the plans I take into the middle.
"If I get into a debate with anyone and if I have to take a certain stance, that doesn't necessarily put me off my game. If anything, that motivates me more.
"It's something that I've come to terms with, that not every team is going to have a go at you.
"It's better to plan your innings without that situation and if that situation comes in, you have to take it as more fuel to the fire.
"Australia are a strong side that play with a lot of passion and I believe in playing in the same way. I like that challenge, I've always enjoyed playing against Australia."
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