Cricket

Virat Kohli's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign got off to a disappointing start as the Indian batter was dismissed for a mere 1 off 5 balls in the team's opening match against Ireland. Kohli's dismissal raised concerns about his form and approach, particularly in light of his recent struggles with strike rate.Kohli's innings was characterized by an eagerness to hit big shots from the outset. However, his attempts to force the issue resulted in his downfall. He danced down the track to a Mark Adair delivery and attempted a lofted shot, only to edge the ball to third man.Former India player Sanjay Manjrekar believes that Kohli was feeling the pressure to maintain a high strike rate, a criticism that has plagued him in the past. Given that India were chasing a modest target of 97 runs, Manjrekar felt that Kohli could have taken a more measured approach."I am very surprised that he got out. He got out while trying to play a shot. Somewhere he was feeling the pressure of strike rate. In IPL he managed it. In this match, he didn't need to play a brisk knock. He would have played normally as in such pitches he would not get out if he plays normally as he has the class of Test cricket," said Manjrekar.Kohli's strike rate has been a subject of intense scrutiny in recent times, particularly during the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he silenced his critics with a career-best performance in the tournament, winning the Orange Cap with 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.70.Despite his impressive IPL performance, Kohli's dismissal in the T20 World Cup opener has raised questions about his ability to adapt to different match situations. With India facing a tough challenge in the tournament, Kohli will need to find his form quickly and contribute significantly to the team's success.

The debate surrounding strike rates in T20 cricket continues to rage, with former Pakistan opener Salman Butt taking aim at critics who lack experience in international cricket. Butt's comments come in the wake of criticism directed at Virat Kohli and Pakistan captain Babar Azam for their perceived slow strike rates.Butt argues that strike rate is a result of a process, and that batters develop a muscle memory for responding to different deliveries over time. He criticizes those who have not achieved significant success in international cricket for commenting on strike rates, saying that they lack the necessary experience to make informed judgments.Butt also highlights the importance of adapting to different situations in T20 cricket. He notes that Babar Azam and Kohli are both capable of scoring quickly when necessary, but that they also recognize the value of building an innings and playing according to the conditions.Butt's comments echo those of Babar Azam, who recently stated that he cannot bat like younger players such as Saim Ayub, and that Ayub cannot bat like him. Azam emphasizes that each batter has their own strengths and weaknesses, and that it is important to play to their own abilities.Pakistan's consistent performance in T20 international cricket is a testament to their ability to adapt to different conditions and play to their strengths. They have reached the semi-finals of six out of eight T20 World Cups, and were runners-up in 2007 and 2022.Despite their success, Pakistan has faced setbacks in recent tournaments. In the 2022 T20 World Cup final, they lost to England after an injury to Shaheen Afridi forced them to use a spinner in a crucial over.Babar Azam acknowledges the mistakes that have cost Pakistan in recent tournaments, and says that the team is working to overcome them. He believes that Pakistan has the potential to win the T20 World Cup, and that they will be looking to make a strong showing in the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Former New Zealand fast bowler and commentator Simon Doull has revealed the backlash he has faced for criticizing Virat Kohli's strike rate. Despite praising Kohli's skills and achievements, Doull's comments on the Indian batsman's need to improve his strike rate have drawn negative reactions from passionate fans.Doull believes that Kohli, a phenomenal player, should be dominating more than he has been. He points to Kohli's strike rate as an area for improvement, suggesting that the former RCB captain is afraid to get out and is worried about what is behind him rather than focusing on his own abilities.Doull has also made similar comments about Pakistan's Babar Azam, who has since acknowledged that his coaches have expressed the same concerns. However, Doull emphasizes that his main point has always been that Kohli shouldn't have to worry about getting out, as he is too good for that.Despite his positive comments about Kohli, Doull's criticism of his strike rate has led to death threats. He expresses disappointment that his constructive criticism has been met with such hostility.Doull believes that with the introduction of the impact substitute rule in the IPL, a strike rate of 130-135 is no longer sufficient. Kohli's impressive performance in the IPL 2024, where he finished as the highest run-getter with a strike rate of 154.69, demonstrates that he has taken Doull's criticism to heart.

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has lauded Virat Kohli's resilience in the face of criticism over his strike rate in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Despite leading the run-scoring charts, Kohli has faced scrutiny for his batting approach, particularly against spinners. However, the RCB icon has silenced his critics in recent matches by taking on the spinners and maintaining a healthy strike rate.Hayden believes that the criticism has motivated Kohli to improve his game. "He's a very conventional cricketer, which makes him great across all three formats," Hayden said. "But one of the big concerns that we've all had is through the middle. And so, like all great champions, if there is something out there in the media or there's something where you can feel yourself to improve, then you get about making your business to do so."Hayden pointed out that Kohli's strike rate against spin has improved significantly in the middle overs. "That's critical for India because international sides they'll line up with spin. Every side will have two, sometimes three spinners as their resource, and they'll use it to slow down a Kohli who, inside that powerplay has got such a huge energy and momentum and creates great pressure on opposition."Hayden also noted that top players often respond positively to criticism. "A dangerous athlete is one that's been wounded," he said. "Steve Waugh never used to have a word to him. Kevin Pietersen, he used to love the pressure. Brian Lara, Don't talk to him. Why would you do that? He'll just smash you. So, guys that are of that kind of quality, if you try and needle them, all they do is get better."Kohli's recent performances have vindicated Hayden's assessment. The RCB skipper has scored 634 runs in 12 matches, including three centuries, and is currently the Orange Cap holder. His improved strike rate against spin has been a key factor in RCB's success this season.

David Miller, the South African batsman, believes that strike rate will be the primary measure of success in T20 cricket, with averages becoming less relevant for players with his level of impact. Miller has been a key player for both the Gujarat Titans in the IPL and the South African national team, excelling in the role of a finisher.In the current IPL season, batsmen have taken the power game to new heights, with seven scores above 250. This has sparked a debate about strike rate, with Miller emphasizing its importance. "In T20 cricket, it can be difficult to judge someone purely on average," he said. "When it comes to the middle order, it has always been the strike rates and what kind of impact the batter has had in the game."Miller believes that as T20 cricket evolves, the focus will shift towards impact and match-winning ability. "How impactful are you in the game? Depending on the situation. If we're needing 15 an over, can you do it? And that's, I think, what guys are going to have to select teams on their match-winning ability," he said.Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup next month, Miller anticipates tough challenges from bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. "Bumrah is bowling well at the moment. And he has been a world-class bowler for many years. He's a threat to me, as well as every other batter in the World Cup," he said.Miller also praised Gujarat Titans teammate Sai Sudharsan, who is having a breakout IPL season. "He's an incredibly talented player. Still got a long career ahead of him. I've enjoyed watching him play. I love the way that he preps. And just the build-up to games and how he goes about it. He's a very level-headed young boy that's got a lot of talent," said Miller.Miller and South Africa will be aiming to win their first global title at the T20 World Cup. "This team that we have at the moment has played a lot of cricket together the last couple of years and has a lot of confidence and a lot of success," he said. "We've got a lot of experience, guys that have been under pressure before and come through successfully."Miller is confident in his own abilities in ICC events. "I love World Cups, I must be honest. I feel like I've done well at World Cups, personally. And I just want to continue the momentum," he said.

Virat Kohli's remarkable consistency in the IPL 2024 has been undeniable, with the star batsman leading the competition with 634 runs from 12 matches. However, despite his impressive tally, some critics have questioned his strike rate of 153.51, suggesting he wasn't scoring quickly enough for a top-order batsman.Kohli responded emphatically to these criticisms with a blistering 92 runs off just 47 balls against Punjab Kings on Thursday night, keeping Bengaluru alive in the playoff race. The former RCB captain subtly responded to critics who had questioned his intent, but his comments also drew criticism from former India batting legend Sunil Gavaskar.Former Australia batter Matthew Hayden weighed in on the debate, stating that such criticisms are common for technical and conventional cricketers like Kohli. "He's a very conventional cricketer. He's a very technical cricketer, which makes him great across all three formats," Hayden said.Hayden praised Kohli's ability to address the shortcomings highlighted in the media and focus on his game. "But one of the big concerns that we've all had is through the middle. And so, like all great champions, if there is something out there in the media or there's something where you can feel yourself to improve, then you get about making your business to do so. And I sense that that's exactly what's happened to Virat Kohli this season," he added.Hayden emphasized the importance of Kohli's improved strike rate against spin, a critical factor for India in international matches. "Those middle phases being that 138 strike-rate against spin, that's critical for India because international sides they'll line up with spin. Every side will have two, sometimes three spinners as their resource, and they'll use it to slow down a Kohli who, inside that powerplay has got such a huge energy and momentum and creates great pressure on opposition," Hayden said.The Australian legend cited examples of former cricketers who responded to criticism by letting their performances speak for themselves. "Steve Waugh never used to have a word to him. Kevin Pietersen, he used to love the pressure. Brian Lara, Don't talk to him. Why would you do that? He'll just smash you. So, guys that are of that kind of quality, if you try and needle them, all they do is get better," Hayden said.

Virat Kohli's scintillating 92 off 47 balls, featuring a strike rate of 195, propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a commanding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Thursday. Kohli's innings was the cornerstone of RCB's impressive 241/7 total, silencing critics who had questioned his strike rate and intent.Kohli's knock was a masterclass in timing and power. He used his feet and wrists effectively, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground. He reached his fifty in just 32 balls and continued to accelerate, smashing seven fours and six maximums.Kohli's partnerships with Rajat Patidar (55 off 23 balls) and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls) were crucial in RCB's dominant performance. Patidar provided the early momentum with his six maximums and three fours, while Green's late onslaught helped RCB cross the 200-mark.PBKS's bowling attack struggled to contain RCB's onslaught. Pacer Vidhwath Kaverappa picked up two wickets in the powerplay but was let down by dropped catches. Sam Curran and Harshal Patel also leaked runs, allowing RCB to score 56 in the powerplay and continue the momentum throughout the innings.In response, PBKS managed only 181/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Shikhar Dhawan (43) and Liam Livingstone (32) provided some resistance, but RCB's bowlers kept them in check. Patel was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets in the final over.Kohli's performance was particularly significant as it ended the debate surrounding his strike rate and intent. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif praised Kohli's willingness to go for big shots, stating that his dismissal while attempting a six should put an end to the criticism.RCB's victory was a testament to their team effort and the brilliance of Virat Kohli. The win strengthens their position in the IPL standings and gives them a much-needed boost ahead of the playoffs.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has come to the defense of the star batter amidst ongoing scrutiny surrounding his performance and strike rate in T20 cricket. Sharma praised Kohli's resilience and match-winning prowess, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket.Despite criticism from former cricketers and pundits questioning Kohli's suitability for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the batter has responded with stellar performances in the IPL 2024 season. With 634 runs in 12 games, including one century and five fifties, Kohli has silenced his critics with an average of 70.44 and a strike rate of 153.51.In a post-match interaction after his match-winning 92 against Punjab Kings, Kohli emphasized the importance of quality over quantity. He explained that his understanding of the game allows him to practice less and focus on replicating his past successes.Kohli also showcased his commitment to expanding his skillset, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different situations. He highlighted his use of the slog sweep against spinners, a shot he hadn't practiced but had executed successfully in the past.Sharma's unwavering support for Kohli underscores the batter's enduring legacy in Indian cricket. Despite facing criticism, Kohli has consistently delivered match-winning performances, proving his value to the team. His ability to adapt and evolve his game is a testament to his dedication and commitment to excellence.

Virat Kohli's strike rate in T20 cricket has been a topic of intense debate among fans and experts alike. Despite being selected for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad, Kohli's slow scoring pace has drawn criticism from some quarters.Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has been particularly vocal in his criticism, questioning Kohli's intent and suggesting that his poor strike rate is hindering India's chances of success in T20 cricket. However, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram has defended Kohli, arguing that the criticism is unwarranted.Akram believes that Kohli's strike rate is not a major concern, as long as he is scoring runs and contributing to his team's victories. He pointed out that Kohli has been crucial to Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) success this season, despite his relatively low strike rate."If the guy is scoring 100 at 150 strike rate, isn't it fine?" Akram said. "If the team had won, there wouldn't have been criticism."Akram also criticized the notion that Kohli is not playing with enough intent. He argued that Kohli is under immense pressure as both a player and a captain, and that he is doing the best he can in a difficult situation."He is scoring, but one player cannot win the match," Akram said. "Criticising him unnecessarily... it's not fair."Akram also questioned the role of an "anchor" in T20 cricket, suggesting that the concept is outdated in the modern game. He pointed to the high scores being posted in this year's IPL as evidence that teams are now expected to score quickly from the outset."If you look at this IPL, it feels like it's over," Akram said. "The way teams are scoring 270s, it looks like it. People are calling an anchor slow even when the strike rate is 150."