Despite being in top form in the 2024 IPL, Virat Kohli has failed to live up to expectations in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Team India's batting coach Vikram Rathour has admitted his concern about Kohli's lack of runs, but believes facing challenges can be beneficial for players. Despite Kohli's performance, India's success in the tournament has been largely due to their middle-order stepping up and delivering strong performances, leaving Rathour overall satisfied. Stay updated on the latest news and join via WhatsApp to never miss an update from Odisha Television Limited.
Virat Kohli's Struggles in the T20 World Cup: Despite Stellar IPL Performance
Virat Kohli, India's batting mainstay and former captain, has been facing a slump in form in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli entered the tournament on the back of an impressive Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he was the second-highest run-scorer with 634 runs in 16 matches.
However, Kohli's form has been a cause for concern in the World Cup. He has managed just 119 runs in five innings, with his highest score being 44 against arch-rivals Pakistan. Kohli's struggles have put pressure on India's middle order and have raised questions about his place in the team.
Team Concern
India's batting coach, Vikram Rathour, has expressed his concerns about Kohli's form. "We need to work with Virat and try to find ways to get him back to scoring runs," Rathour said after India's defeat against South Africa. "Sometimes these challenges are good for players, they make you stronger mentally."
Despite Kohli's struggles, Rathour remains optimistic about India's chances in the tournament. "The team is playing well, the batting has been good, and the bowling has been very good," he said. "We just need to be a little more consistent."
Middle Order Resilience
While Kohli has failed to live up to expectations, India's middle order has stepped up and delivered strong performances. Suryakumar Yadav has been in imperious form, scoring 218 runs in five innings, while Hardik Pandya has made key contributions with both bat and ball.
"The middle order has been outstanding," Rathour said. "They have taken the pressure off Virat, and they have won us games."
FAQs
Q1. Why has Virat Kohli struggled in the T20 World Cup? A1. Kohli has been facing a loss of form and technical issues, including a lack of timing and decision-making in shot selection.
Q2. Is Virat Kohli's place in the team at risk? A2. Despite his current form, Kohli remains a key player for India due to his experience and leadership qualities. However, if his struggles continue, his place could be under review.
Q3. Has Kohli ever struggled for form before? A3. Yes, Kohli experienced a slump in form in 2014-15, but he bounced back and regained his status as one of the best batsmen in the world.
Q4. What can Kohli do to regain form? A4. Kohli needs to work on his technical issues and regain his confidence. He can also benefit from seeking support from his teammates and coaches.
Q5. What are India's chances of winning the T20 World Cup despite Kohli's struggles? A5. India's chances remain strong due to the resilience of their middle order and the overall balance of the team. However, Kohli's return to form would significantly boost their title prospects.
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Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble celebrates his birthday. He holds the record for most Test wickets by an Indian and is also the leading wicket-taker for India in ODIs. Kumble was the second player in history to take all ten wickets in a Test match innings and later went on to coach the Indian team to numerous victories. He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2015.
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