Virat Kohli brings his India team to England later in the summer (Picture: AP)

Graeme Swann cannot see India winning a single Test against England this summer unless Virat Kohli turns up.

India travel to England following the conclusion of the Indian Premier League for a five-match Test series.

Despite losing the Ashes last winter and being beaten by New Zealand, England will be the favourites to triumph in home conditions.

But Swann, who took over 250 wickets in 60 Tests, knows Kohli is a player capable of changing the outcome of a series.


In 66 Test matches, Kohli has already scored over 5,500 runs and 21 centuries, although he struggled in English conditions during India’s last tour here in 2014.



‘I think it depends a lot on Jimmy Anderson and how he bowls with the swinging Dukes ball,’ Swann told India Today.

Former England spinner Graeme Swann (Picture: Getty)

‘If he bowls as well as we know he can, I don’t think Indian batsmen are going to be able to cope well with swing bowling.

‘Virat Kohli, let’s face it, is the best player in the world to watch. I used to enjoy playing against him, because he is gorgeous to watch, he looks the part. He is beautiful to the eye.’

Kohli has signed to play for Surrey throughout June in preparation for the five-match series against England and Swann has praised the move.

Joe Root’s side will be favourites to win the series (Picture: Getty)

‘It’s a good decision from him,’ he added. ‘And he will be good for English crowds. County cricket does not gets big crowds in.

‘This should push people to watch arguably the best batsmen in the world currently.

‘And if it does give him some form and confidence going into the series, I think we are livening it up because otherwise, it could be a steamrolling England win.’

After agreeing a short deal with Surrey, Kohli said: ‘I am thankful to Alec Stewart and Surrey for allowing me the opportunity to join them during their 2018 season. I can’t wait to get to the Kia Oval.’

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