From strike-rate debate to using slog-sweep, Virat Kohli opens up his batting process ahead of T20 World Cup 2024

Virat Kohli has admitted that he was focussed on keeping his strike rate up during the match-winning innings for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday. In the must-win 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter, Kohli slammed a quickfire 92 off 47 balls, scoring at a strike rate of 195.74 as RCB posted their highest total away from home – 241/7.

Bengaluru eventually won the match by 60 runs to stay alive in the IPL playoffs race while PBKS got eliminated .

“Was important for me to keep up the strike rate right through (laughs),” Kohli said during the mid-innings break. “I was just focussed on taking the momentum forward. There was a tricky phase when Rajat got out, and there was a break for rain and hail. We had a bit of stop of momentum. Had to rebuild for 8-10 balls. Once the base was set and Cam got a few boundaries away, I thought I had to go again.”

WATCH: Kohli pulls off mind-blowing run-out after shutting down strike-rate criticism

“Surface was pretty dry underneath, and there was some grass coverage as well. If you saw Faf and me got done by lack of pace off the pitch. There was a two-paced feel with the new ball.”

Virat Kohli, the captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and one of India’s premier batsmen, has been in the spotlight recently for his aggressive batting approach. In a recent match against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), Kohli showcased his intent to keep up with the strike rate and adapt his game to counter spinners. Let’s delve into the details of his batting process.

The Match-Winning Innings

In the crucial encounter against PBKS, Kohli played a blistering knock, scoring 92 runs off just 47 balls. His strike rate during this innings was an impressive 195.74, as RCB posted their highest total away from home – 241/7. The match was a must-win situation for RCB to stay alive in the IPL playoffs race, and Kohli’s aggressive approach paid off.

Focusing on Strike Rate

During the mid-innings break, Kohli revealed his mindset: “Was important for me to keep up the strike rate right through (laughs). I was just focused on taking the momentum forward.” He acknowledged that there was a tricky phase when Rajat Patidar got out, and rain and hail interrupted play. However, once the base was set and Cameron Green started finding boundaries, Kohli decided to accelerate.

Adapting to the Conditions

Kohli also discussed the pitch conditions. The surface at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was dry underneath, with some grass coverage. Both Kohli and Faf du Plessis faced challenges due to the two-paced nature of the pitch. Despite these difficulties, RCB’s innings was delayed midway due to rain, but they still managed to set a formidable target.

The Slog-Sweep Returns

In the post-match ceremony, Kohli spoke about his batting evolution. While he emphasizes quality over quantity, he has reintroduced the slog-sweep shot to counter spinners. During the match against PBKS, he used the slog-sweep effectively against Rahul Chahar and Liam Livingstone. Kohli’s ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining quality remains a key aspect of his game.

Conclusion

As the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, Kohli’s form and approach will be crucial for Team India. His strike-rate debate and willingness to use unconventional shots like the slog-sweep demonstrate his commitment to evolving as a batsman. Fans can expect more fireworks from this modern-day cricketing legend in the upcoming tournament.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Virat Kohli’s batting process and his recent performance in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL):

What was Virat Kohli’s strike rate in the match against Punjab Kings (PBKS)?
- In the match against PBKS, Virat Kohli scored 92 runs off just 47 balls, achieving an impressive strike rate of 195.74.
Why was this innings crucial for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)?
- The match was a must-win situation for RCB to stay alive in the IPL playoffs race. Kohli’s aggressive approach helped RCB post their highest total away from home – 241/7.
How did Kohli adapt to the pitch conditions during the match?
- The pitch at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was tricky, with a two-paced nature. Despite the challenges, Kohli adjusted his game and contributed significantly to RCB’s total.
What shot did Kohli use effectively against spinners in this match?
- Kohli reintroduced the slog-sweep shot to counter spinners. He used it effectively against Rahul Chahar and Liam Livingstone.
What does Kohli’s batting evolution mean for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024?
- Kohli’s form and approach will be crucial for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His willingness to adapt and innovate while maintaining quality bodes well for the team.