In the ongoing IPL 2024 T20 cricket series, one of the most talked-about topics has been the performance of Virat Kohli, the star player for the Bengaluru team. With 500 runs under his belt, Kohli has been instrumental, yet Bengaluru finds itself struggling at the bottom of the points table with 7 defeats in 10 matches.
Despite Kohli impressive performance, there has been a wave of criticism directed at him. One of the primary points of contention has been his strike rate. Critics argue that Kohli, particularly as an opening batsman, tends to play aggressively at the start but slows down as he approaches his half-century or century. This, they claim, not only affects the team’s momentum but also reflects selfish play aimed at personal milestones rather than the team victory.
These criticisms have even extended to suggestions that Kohli should be excluded from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad. However, the selectors, backed by Kohli formidable international record, have rightfully included him in the squad.
AB de Villiers, the legendary cricketer, has come out strongly in support of Kohli. He criticized those who focus solely on statistics without truly understanding the game. De Villiers rightly pointed out that Kohli strike rate this year is actually better than his record-breaking season in 2016.
In response to the criticism, de Villiers stated, “Virat Kohli has been facing criticism regarding his strike rate. It’s been going on for so long that it’s tiring me out. I am disappointed to say this. This guy is one of the best cricketers ever. He has been outstanding in the IPL series. He is doing a specific job for RCB team. But he is constantly criticized by some pundits who run on statistics alone without any real knowledge of cricket.”
It’s important to put things in perspective. Kohli contribution to the Bengaluru team cannot be overstated. While the team may be struggling, Kohli has consistently performed at the top level. His experience, with 80 centuries and 26000+ runs in international cricket, speaks volumes about his capabilities.
In response to the criticism, Kohli teammate, AB de Villiers, had this to say: “How many matches have you played? How many hundreds have you scored in IPL series? Virat Kohli strike rate this year is better than his record-breaking season in 2016. However, I don’t know where these criticisms are coming from. I will tell Virat Kohli that you are batting like you are playing in a dream and keep playing like this.”
It’s time to appreciate Kohli brilliance rather than focus solely on statistics. His contribution to Indian cricket is invaluable, and instead of criticizing, it’s time to support him wholeheartedly. After all, as de Villiers rightly points out, those who talk about Kohli strike rate do not really know cricket.
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