Virat Kohli‘s recent IPL century sparked renewed debate surrounding his strike rate. While some fans and experts questioned his approach, legendary cricketer Brian Lara has come out in strong support of the Indian batsman.
A Century for the Books, But Questions Linger
Opening the innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) alongside Faf du Plessis against Rajasthan Royals (RR), Kohli smashed a spectacular 113 runs off just 72 balls, boasting a strike rate of 156.94. Despite the impressive century, the eighth of his IPL career and the most by any player in the tournament’s history, some voices expressed concern over his strike rate.
Brian Lara, a true icon of the game, weighed in on the debate during a Star Sports Press Room appearance. He emphasized the importance of considering batting position when evaluating strike rate. “The strike rate depends on the position,” Lara explained, “and for an opener strike rate of 130-140 is pretty alright.”
Lara further solidified his support for Kohli, suggesting his century should solidify his place in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. “An opener like Kohli always has the chance of starting at 130, bat through the overs and finish at 160 or even higher, which is alright,” he stated.
Rohit-Kohli-Gill: Lara’s Ideal Top 3 for India
Lara went a step further, proposing his ideal top-three batting order for India in the T20 World Cup. “If you ask me, India’s top three in the World Cup should be Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill irrespective of all these,” he declared.
Lara acknowledged the value of experience but also recognized the need for youthful energy. “Though, I think that you should have some youthful punch in the opening,” he suggested.
His ideal scenario involves pairing an experienced player with a rising talent at the top of the order, with the other experienced batsman slotting in at number three. “One of the younger players, showing their mettle, and having one of those experienced players shepherd the innings in the middle-order. Having that whole experience up front, it could have a negative effect if they get dismissed early, so I will use one at top, but use the other at No. 3,” Lara concluded.
With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, Lara’s insights offer valuable perspective on team composition and player roles. Whether India adopts his proposed top three or opts for a different strategy remains to be seen. However, his backing of Kohli and his emphasis on a balanced batting order are sure to spark further discussion among fans and experts alike.
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