By Swapneel Deshpande 30 Apr 2025, 12:13 IST
Vikas Kohli, brother of Virat Kohli, has taken a sharp dig at Sanjay Manjrekar. The former cricketer has repeatedly questioned the strike rates of experienced players, especially Virat Kohli, during IPL 2025. However, Vikas turned the tables by reminding Manjrekar of his own ODI strike rate.
On Threads, Vikas posted, “Mr Sanjay Manjrekar; Career ODI strike rate: 64.31. Easy to talk about 200 plus strike rates.” His post came after Manjrekar praised young batters for their aggressive scoring in T20s.
Manjrekar recently shared a list of top 10 batters of IPL 2025. Notably, he excluded both Virat Kohli and Sai Sudharsan. Kohli, despite consistent performances, did not find a spot. Manjrekar instead hailed players like Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya for their attacking approach.
“Kohli plays T20 cricket differently,” Manjrekar had earlier said. “New-age players dominate the format with strike rates above 150.” He cited recent knocks from Arya and Prabhsimran as examples of the modern T20 approach.
Manjrekar’s own ODI record, however, tells a different story. He scored 1,994 runs in 74 matches. His average was 33.23. His career strike rate stood at just 64.30, much lower than modern standards.
Virat Kohli has scored 443 runs in IPL 2025 so far. He averages 63.29 across 10 innings, with six fifties. His strike rate is 138.87, slightly below last season’s 154.69, but still effective. Kohli is currently chasing Sai Sudharsan for the Orange Cap.
Against Delhi Capitals, he scored a composed 51 from 47 balls. Kohli explained his approach during the post-match presentation. He said strike rotation, partnerships, and reading conditions are key in a chase. “I ensure singles and doubles don’t stop. That keeps the scoreboard moving,” he added.
RCB’s next match is against Chennai Super Kings in Bengaluru. Kohli enjoys a strong record against CSK. He has scored 1,084 runs in 33 innings against them, with nine fifties. His strike rate against CSK stands at 125.46.
With the Orange Cap in sight, Kohli will aim to continue his consistent form. Meanwhile, his brother’s remarks have ignited fresh debate about how strike rates are perceived, especially by former players.
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