Virat Kohli's strike rate has been a big topic of discussion among fans and experts© AFP
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart Virat Kohli did not mince his words when he criticized those who criticized his strike rate and his inability to take on spinners in the middle overs. Kohli went on the attack with the microphone in his hand after the Bengaluru side defeated Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on Sunday. While Kohli himself scored a 44-ball 70, he attacked those who made 'expert commentary' while he was in the commentary box. After the match, Kohli found support from former Indian all-rounder Navjot Singh Sidhu.
Sidhu, who has worked as an expert on Star Sports for the IPL 2024, slammed those who targeted Virat for his strike rate. The former cricketer-tuned commentator highlighted the technical aspects of Kohli's game, coupled with his exceptional career, that make him the player he is today.
“People think Kohli is God. He is a human, so he will play like a human. Instead of nitpicking, why don't we look at the fact that the man has 80 centuries. That is his strength and weakness, he has none.” And if you look closely, today he played with the back foot and increased the spinners. Tell me how many people can do that? Hitting a left-arm spinner off spin… So Kohli is there, him? also cherishes his wicket. What else should he do?” said Sidhu.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif, who has long defended Kohli against strike rate critics, once spoke out against the strike rate talk.
“All I hear these days is the strike rate. People are chasing Kohli. Boss, between the ages of 7 and 15, it is clear that you have to slow down. The economy of a spinner is lower than that of a fast bowler. Why? Because they bowl the middle overs,” Kaif said.
With the win against Gujarat, Bengaluru has kept their play-off hopes alive. But before the team can qualify for the next stage, there is still a long journey to be covered.
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