Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has weighed in on the ongoing debate regarding Virat Kohli’s batting position for the upcoming T20 World Cup. While Virat Kohli recent form has been impressive, questions linger about whether he should open the innings alongside Rohit Sharma.
Hayden believes it won’t matter much where Virat Kohli bats as long as he’s at the crease during the crucial powerplay overs.
Virat Kohli strike rate on rise
After silencing his critics with back-to-back impactful knocks in the IPL, Virat Kohli currently sits atop the league’s run-scoring charts. His strike rate has also shown a positive upward trend, a positive sign heading into the World Cup.
Fireworks regardless of Position
Hayden emphasizes that Kohli’s presence in the first six overs, irrespective of his batting position, is a recipe for “fireworks.” He highlights India’s overall batting strength, creating a comfortable environment for Virat Kohli to play aggressively.
“That strike rate is trending in the right direction, it’s trending up. Look at the IPL over the last four years, it’s gone from mid and around that 120 then it goes 130 and then 140 and 150. So 150 for me is kind of that sweet spot that starts in and everyone having conversation well where you bat? Is it three, is it open? You know those first six overs, it doesn’t matter if Kohli is in those first six overs. You know that there’s going to be fireworks,” Hayden said on Star Sports.
Favorable conditions for Virat Kohli exploits
Hayden anticipates benign batting conditions in the West Indies, which could further benefit Virat Kohli’s attacking style. He believes Kohli will look to capitalize on these conditions, knowing he’s surrounded by capable big hitters in the batting order.
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Balancing Act for Virat Kohli
While Virat Kohli boasts an impressive average of 57.14 as a T20 opener, his past success at number three in the T20 World Cup cannot be ignored. His phenomenal record at number three includes a staggering average of 87.07.
Difficult decision for India Team Management
With the World Cup just a month away, the Indian team management faces a crucial decision regarding Kohli’s batting position. Hayden’s comments highlight the potential benefits of promoting Kohli, but his past success at number three remains a significant factor.
Will Virat Kohli open alongside Rohit Sharma, or will the team management stick with their tried-and-tested approach? Only time will tell how India chooses to utilize their batting maestro in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
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