During the press conference for the 2024 T20 World Cup squad on May 2, Team India captain Rohit Sharma responded with a charming smile when questioned about the potential concern regarding Virat Kohli’s strike rate. The recent announcement of the 15-member Indian squad for the upcoming event sparked discussions, with one of the focal points being Virat Kohli’s strike rate in the shortest format.
Although his overall T20I strike rate stands at an impressive 138.15, there have been occasional fluctuations, particularly against spin outside the powerplay in certain innings. During the press conference where Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed media queries, concerns about Kohli’s strike rate were raised by a reporter. As the question was posed, Rohit’s response was a charming smile.
Captain Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar started smiling when the Journalist asked about the Strike Rate of Virat Kohli. 😄👌 pic.twitter.com/QFqN1arkDf
— The Ajay Cric (@TheCric_AJAY) May 2, 2024
After his unbeaten 70 off 44 against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) recent match, Virat Kohli sharply rebuked critics questioning his strike rate. Despite the scrutiny, he has performed remarkably well in the ongoing IPL, accumulating 500 runs in 10 matches at a commendable strike rate of 147.49.
“He’s been in excellent form, no worries about that whatsoever”- Ajit Agarkar
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar responded to the inquiry about Virat Kohli’s strike rate by mentioning that there haven’t been any discussions, given the phenomenal form of the champion batter in IPL 2024. Kohli holds the record for the highest run-scorer in T20 World Cups with 1,141 runs at an average of 81.50 and a strike rate of 131.30.
“We have not been discussing it (Virat Kohli’s strike rate). He has been in great form, no concerns there at all. You are still going to a World Cup, there is still gap there. That’s where experience does matter a lot.”
“If the tournament turns out like the IPL. If 220 (pitch) plays like 220, we have the skills. At the end of the day when you turn up for a World Cup, the pressure is different,” said Agarkar.
Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team is aiming for their second T20 World Cup title after their victory in the inaugural edition in 2007. Led by Rohit Sharma, they will kick off their campaign against Ireland in New York on June 5th.
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