Cricket

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 it's not fair."Akram also questioned the role of an "anchor" in T20 cricket, suggesting that the concept is outdated in the modern game.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."

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will face off in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Saturday, with both teams vying for a victory to enhance their playoff chances. The encounter holds significance as RCB had previously defeated GT in a one-sided affair last weekend, with Virat Kohli and Will Jacks playing pivotal roles.Kohli, who has faced scrutiny for his strike rate, showcased his prowess with an unbeaten 70 off 44 balls in the previous match. However, it was Jacks who stole the limelight with an astonishing unbeaten 100 off just 41 balls, reaching his first 50 in 31 balls and then requiring only 10 more to reach triple figures.Ahead of the return leg against GT, Kohli and several RCB players attended an event. A video of Kohli dancing while entering the room has gone viral on social media, capturing the attention of fans. In the video, Kohli is seen dancing with RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who provides him with a shoulder massage.Kohli has been in exceptional form in the ongoing IPL, currently ranking as the second-highest run-getter with 500 runs in 10 matches. He trails CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad by a mere nine runs in the Orange Cap race. Kohli's performance in the remaining matches will be crucial not only for RCB but also for Team India, as he has been selected in the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has addressed the ongoing debate surrounding Kohli's strike rate, stating that the team is not concerned and that there is a difference between IPL and international cricket. Agarkar emphasized the importance of experience and the team's overall balance and power.There has been speculation about whether Kohli should open the batting during the T20 World Cup. India captain Rohit Sharma has neither confirmed nor denied this possibility, stating that all options are open and the decision will be made based on conditions in the West Indies.

In a comical exchange during the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs. Gujarat Titans (GT) match on Saturday, Virat Kohli delivered a witty response to Gujarat Titans' wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha's attempt to rally his team.As RCB chased a modest target of 148, skipper Faf du Plessis' blistering 64 gave them a strong start. The Titans, on the other hand, struggled to contain RCB's onslaught.At the end of the 7th over, with RCB reaching the 100-run mark, Saha was overheard urging his teammates, "Chalo, chalo runs roko, match kheecho" (Let's stop the runs and extend the match).Kohli, who overheard Saha's plea, retorted with a humorous quip, "B*, aise kaise match kheech lega!" (Nonsense, how can you extend the match like that!).Kohli's response drew laughter from the commentators and fans alike. He went on to score a quickfire 42 off 27 balls before being dismissed in the 10th over.Despite Kohli's dismissal, RCB continued their dominance, chasing down the target with ease in just 14 overs. The victory kept their slim playoff hopes alive.The exchange between Kohli and Saha highlighted the competitive spirit and camaraderie that exists within the IPL. It also showcased Kohli's quick wit and ability to lighten the mood even in tense situations.

Virat Kohli's animated gestures towards his wife Anushka Sharma during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's match against Gujarat Titans on Saturday have become the talk of the town. The former RCB captain's playful actions, such as pretending to carry an aarti ki thali upon his arrival, were met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the audience.This was Anushka's first public appearance since the birth of their son, Akaay. Prior to this, she was seen during her birthday festivities, where she celebrated with Virat and his RCB colleagues in a private gathering.Kohli's lighthearted demeanor and deep connection with Anushka were evident in his gestures. The endearing interaction between the couple rapidly spread across social media platforms.Meanwhile, RCB kept alive their slim playoff hopes in the Indian Premier League with a four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in a low-scoring thriller. Bengaluru pacers came to the party as Gujarat was put into bat and bowled out for 147 runs in 19.3 overs.Bengaluru skipper Faf du Plessis then led the way with 64 off 23 balls, as the hosts finished with 152-6 in only 13.4 overs. Kohli scored 42 runs in 27 balls and shared an opening partnership of 92 with du Plessis in 5.5 overs.RCB's victory keeps them in contention for a playoff spot, while Gujarat Titans' hopes of securing a top-two finish have taken a hit.

Virat Kohli's all-around brilliance propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on Saturday.Before the match, Kohli faced criticism from former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar for his comments on cricket experts. However, he silenced his critics with a blistering 42 off 27 balls, including four sixes, to help RCB chase down a modest target of 148.Kohli's innings was not just about his batting prowess. He also showcased his exceptional fielding skills, running out GT's Shahrukh Khan with a stunning one-handed throw. The effort left even his teammate Cameron Green in awe.RCB's bowlers had earlier restricted GT to 147, with Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal picking up two wickets each. David Miller and Shahrukh Khan provided some resistance with a 61-run partnership, but the Titans lacked a substantial innings to build a formidable total.RCB's chase got off to a flying start, with Kohli and captain Faf du Plessis adding 92 runs in just 35 balls for the opening wicket. Du Plessis played a blistering knock of 64 off 23 balls, hitting 10 fours and three sixes.However, RCB's middle order faltered, losing three wickets in quick succession. Kohli's dismissal in the 10th over triggered a collapse, but Glenn Maxwell (23) and Dinesh Karthik (14*) steadied the ship.Despite some nervous moments, RCB managed to cross the finish line with four wickets to spare. The victory lifted them to seventh place on the IPL table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic batter of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has reclaimed the Orange Cap as the leading run-scorer in IPL 2024. His 42-run knock against Gujarat Titans on Saturday propelled him past Chennai Super Kings' Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had briefly held the coveted cap.Kohli's innings came off just 27 deliveries, showcasing his exceptional strokeplay. He formed a formidable opening partnership with RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who struck a blistering 62 off 23 balls. The duo put up a 92-run stand, laying the foundation for RCB's eventual four-wicket victory.However, RCB's middle order faltered against the impressive bowling of Joshua Litle, who claimed four wickets. But the damage had already been done by Kohli and du Plessis, and veteran finisher Dinesh Karthik (21* off 12) and Swapil Singh (15* off 9) guided the team home in the 14th over.Kohli's knock not only earned him the Orange Cap but also sparked a moment of camaraderie with Karthik. After receiving the cap from his teammate, Kohli playfully bowed to him, eliciting smiles from both players.RCB's bowlers also played a crucial role in the victory, restricting Gujarat Titans to a below-par 147. Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets each.Despite the win, RCB's playoff hopes remain uncertain. They currently sit seventh in the points table, with their qualification chances hanging in the balance. However, Kohli's return to form and the team's overall performance in recent matches provide a glimmer of hope for their fans.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) showcased their resilience and depth in a thrilling encounter against Gujarat Titans, successfully chasing down a 147-run target with 38 balls to spare. The victory was set up by an explosive start from Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli, who registered the franchise's second-fastest fifty off 18 balls.Du Plessis, known for his aggressive batting, smashed the ball to all corners of the ground, while Kohli provided crucial support. Together, they propelled RCB to their highest Powerplay score of 92 in IPL history. However, a dramatic turn of events saw RCB lose momentum, slipping from 92/1 to 111/5.Undeterred, Kohli anchored the innings, losing partners but holding one end firmly. Dinesh Karthik's arrival provided much-needed support, and despite Kohli's dismissal, Karthik kept his calm and targeted Rashid Khan to regain control.With Swapnil Singh also contributing crucial runs, RCB's resilience shone through as they successfully chased down the target. Veteran batter Karthik, who initially thought he wouldn't bat, gave full credit to Kohli and du Plessis for the victory."I started with a cup of tea, then after four overs I had a cappuccino and thought I wouldn't be batting," Karthik said. "Things happened, and then I had to have a bat."Karthik highlighted the importance of basic cricketing skills and backed himself to get the job done. He also praised the bowlers for their performance and advised Swapnil Singh to play for the one that comes in and commit to his shots.RCB's victory showcased their ability to overcome adversity and the depth of their batting lineup. The team's resilience and determination will be crucial as they aim to make a strong run in the IPL.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic batter of Royal Challengers Bangalore, has etched his name in the annals of the Indian Premier League (IPL) history by becoming the first player to amass 4000 runs in IPL victories. This remarkable feat was achieved during RCB's thrilling four-wicket triumph over Gujarat Titans on Saturday.Kohli's exceptional performance has been a cornerstone of RCB's success over the years. His ability to anchor the innings, play match-winning knocks, and lead from the front has made him one of the most feared batsmen in the league. With 4039 runs to his name in IPL wins, Kohli stands tall as the undisputed king of the tournament.Adding to his illustrious record, Kohli also became the first Indian batter to reach the milestone of 12,500 runs in T20 cricket. He reached this landmark with a thunderous hit off Mohit Sharma in the second over of RCB's chase. This achievement further cements Kohli's status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.Kohli's dominance in the IPL is reflected in the fact that he is the only player to have scored over 4000 runs in wins. Shikhar Dhawan, with 3945 runs, is the closest to Kohli's tally. Rohit Sharma (3918 runs), David Warner (3710 runs), and Suresh Raina (3559 runs) complete the top five run-scorers in IPL wins.Kohli's achievements are a testament to his unwavering determination, exceptional skill, and unwavering commitment to the sport. He continues to inspire millions of fans around the world with his breathtaking performances and unwavering passion for cricket.

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, has launched a scathing attack on Virat Kohli for his recent comments about critics. Kohli had stated that he doesn't pay attention to critics who question his strike rate and ability to play spin.Gavaskar, speaking ahead of the RCB vs GT match on Saturday, took exception to Kohli's remarks. He felt that such comments were a direct insult to the knowledge and experience of former cricketers who work as experts."Commentators questioned only when his strike rate was 118. I'm not too sure. I don't watch too many matches, so I don't know what the other commentators have said otherwise. But if you come and open and then have a strike of 118 when you get out in the 14th or the 15th over, I mean, if you want applause for that, that's a little bit different," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.Gavaskar also criticized Kohli for responding to outside noise if he didn't care about it. "All these guys talk about, 'oh we don't care about outside noise'. Accha! Then why are you replying to any outside noise or whatever it is. We all played a bit of cricket, not a lot of cricket. We don't have agendas. We speak about what we see. We don't necessarily have any likes and dislikes. Even if we have likes and dislikes, we actually speak on what is happening," Gavaskar said.Gavaskar even criticized IPL's official broadcasters for showing Kohli's interview time and again. "I hope Star Sports realizes that when that clip is shown, questioning the critics, the critics are your own commentators. For you to show the person belittling your own commentators, I'm not sure that's a great thing. You need to realize you have shown it enough times, everybody's got the message. I would be very disappointed if you show it once more."Gavaskar's comments have sparked a debate on the role of critics in sports. Some believe that critics have a right to express their opinions, while others feel that they should be more respectful of players.