In the match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli showcased his batting prowess for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Despite suggestions not to call him ‘King’, Kohli proved his worth with a performance befitting his nickname. His masterclass batting during the first home game of the season silenced critics and delighted RCB fans.
In Short
Upcoming T20 World Cup
Just a day before, Kohli led RCB to an exciting victory against Punjab Kings with support from Dines Karthik, sparking serious discussions about India’s team for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup involving former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri and former England captain Kevin Pietersen. While Rohit Sharma’s captaincy for the team is confirmed, there hasn’t been much discussion about Virat Kohli’s role. Kohli had opted out of the entire England Test series due to personal reasons before making a notable comeback to secure a significant win for RCB.
Pietersen’s statement
During the match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans at Narendra Modi Stadium, Kevin Pietersen, alongside Ravi Shastri, praised Virat Kohli on-air. Pietersen suggested that Kohli would be essential for representing the United States in the T20 World Cup.
“In the T20 World Cup happening in the United States, India is playing Pakistan in New York. You’d want someone like Virat Kohli to help advance the game,” Pietersen said.
Stepping out and smashing 145+ Pacers
— Saurav. (@saurav_viratian) March 27, 2024
Just Virat Kohli things 🥶pic.twitter.com/9KslW75ryP
Shastri’s statement
In response, commentator Shastri mentioned MS Dhoni, highlighting India’s victory with a young team in the 2007 prestigious trophy.
“This isn’t about advancing the game, it’s about winning competitions. Wherever the game needs to advance, it will. What I’m saying isn’t a burden. India won the 2007 T20 World Cup with a young team. You need youth. You want it to be brisk. You want it to be fast,” Shastri said.
With his sensational innings, Virat Kohli sent a clear message as he dominated the strong bowling lineup of Punjab Kings in Bengaluru. Despite playing an exciting innings for the home team, scoring 77 runs off 49 balls, Kohli surprised the crowd. His innings included 11 fours and two sixes, showcasing both skill and entertainment value. Winning the Player of the Match award, Kohli emphasized that his focus wasn’t solely on promoting the shortest format of the game.
Virat Kohli’s response(watch video)
“I know my name is associated with advancing cricket in different parts of the world when it comes to T20 cricket. I think I still understand that,” Kohli said with a smile.
A Good Interview By Virat Kohli 🔥
— Finally Live 𝕏 (@FinallyLiveNews) March 26, 2024
He said We Are Just Enjoying,We Know Very Well ,We Will Miss These Days And Crowd one day 💔#ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/6pmef4Xw5p
After scoring his first century of the season during the match against PBKS, the RCB superstar claimed the top spot in the IPL 2024 Orange Cap table. However, Kohli’s ambitions for this season go beyond personal accolades. The former RCB captain is committed to leading his team to victory and ending the drought of IPL titles for the Bengaluru franchise.
“I don’t play for these caps anymore. This is a promise I can make here—I will keep coming and keep giving my best effort,” said the former RCB captain.
Virat Kohli’s new record
During the match against PBKS, Kohli reached a milestone in T20 cricket by scoring his 100th fifty-plus score. Initially struggling at zero, Kohli completed his 51st half-century in just 31 balls, becoming the third Indian player to score more than 50 fifty-plus scores in T20s, following Chris Gayle (110) and David Warner (109).
In the 15th over, Kohli was bowled out by his former RCB teammate Harshal Patel. “I always strive to set the team off to a strong start, yet when wickets tumble, it necessitates a reevaluation of our approach.” This wasn’t a typical flat pitch. I’m disappointed I couldn’t finish the game. The ball was in the slot, but it cut deep. They know I play the cover drive well, so they won’t allow me to hit the gap. You have to come with a game plan here and there,” Kohli said.
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