Virat Kohli made a strong statement with his bat during a match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, proving his worth for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite being advised not to call him ‘king,’ Kohli showcased his batting prowess, silencing critics and thrilling RCB fans during their first home game of the season.
Shastri-Pietersen Debate: Kohli’s Role in T20 World Cup
Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri and ex-England captain Kevin Pietersen recently discussed India’s squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma is set to captain the team, there hasn’t been much talk about Kohli’s role. Pietersen suggested Kohli’s importance for the T20 World Cup, especially with the event happening in the USA. Shastri emphasized the need for youth and flamboyance, referencing India’s 2007 T20 World Cup win.
Kohli’s Response: Focus on Performance
Kohli’s sensational innings against PBKS showcased his skill, scoring 77 runs off 49 balls with 11 fours and two sixes. Receiving the Player of the Match award, Kohli addressed his association with promoting T20 cricket globally but asserted his focus on his performance.
“I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game in different parts of the world when it comes to T20 cricket. I’ve still got it I guess,” Kohli said with a smile.
Watch it here:
I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game…
— gunaaa🍷 (@Guna0505) March 25, 2024
All hail the King @imVkohli 👑🔥 pic.twitter.com/kX9XoHqInx
Achieving his 100th fifty-plus score in T20 cricket during the match, Kohli became the first Indian player to reach this milestone. Despite being bowled out by Harshal Patel, Kohli expressed disappointment but acknowledged the need for strategic adjustments based on the pitch conditions.
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“I try to give the team a blazing start, but if wickets fall, you have to assess. Wasn’t the usual flat pitch. Disappointed I couldn’t finish the game. The ball was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. They know I play the cover drive well, so they’re not going to allow me to hit gaps. You have to come up with a game plan here and there,” Kohli added.
Kohli’s performance also secured him the top spot on the IPL 2024 Orange Cap table, but he stressed his focus on team success over individual accolades, aiming to end RCB’s title drought in the IPL.
