Harbhajan Defends Kohli's Poor Start, Blames Pitch Conditions

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has defended Virat Kohli's poor start to the 2024 T20 World Cup, attributing it to the challenging batting conditions at New York's Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. Kohli has managed only five runs in the tournament so far, raising concerns about his form.

Harbhajan emphasized that it would be unfair to judge Kohli's performance on a pitch that was not conducive to batting. "I do not want to judge anyone on that pitch as batting was difficult on that pitch," he said. "Virat Kohli didn't score runs because the conditions were like that. You cannot judge a player in those conditions."

Instead, Harbhajan highlighted the need for consistency from the Indian batting unit, particularly in the opening overs. "Runs are obviously expected from Virat Kohli," he said. "We also need to consistently see partnerships that we aren't getting in the first six overs. Then your middle order is set. Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube have scored runs."

Yadav and Dube played crucial roles in India's victory against the USA, guiding the team to a win after a shaky start. Kohli will have an opportunity to improve his form in the Super 8 stage, as India moves to Lauderhill, Florida.

Despite Kohli's struggles, India has secured a spot in the Super 8, winning all three of their New York games. They are guaranteed to face Australia and Afghanistan in the next round, with Bangladesh likely to be the fourth team in the group.

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