India Test captain Virat Kohli has lavished praise on Ravichandran Ashwin. 

Kohli was effusive in his praise for the off spinner who played a key role in India's recent series win over top-ranked South Africa.

"Ashwin has always been a champion bowler. I keep picking his brain on the field," Kohli was quoted as saying in bcci.tv.

"In difficult situations, I keep asking him what should be done. He gives me proper insight. As a captain, you need a few people like that around. You cannot possibly think of everything at all times."

In a series dominated by bowlers, Ashwin ended with 31 wickets in four matches, while Ravindra Jadeja contributed with 23 scalps in as many games.

Kohli, who is known to back his bowlers, stressed on the importance of giving confidence to the bowlers.

"It is very important to give confidence to the bowlers. We have told the bowlers that they are the bosses and they will dictate terms in Test cricket.

"And we want each bowler to think, 'I am going to win the match for India'. Batsmen will contribute at some stage, but it is up to the bowlers to take responsibility and feel like match-winners."