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The stage is set for an electrifying T20 World Cup 2024 clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Every encounter between these two Asian giants carries immense weight, regardless of the stage – group stage or tournament final. It's a battle for bragging rights, a chance to establish dominance over their fierce competitor. For the past decade, Virat Kohli has been a defining figure in these high-pressure India-Pakistan clashes. The Indian batting maestro thrives under pressure, having rescued his team on countless occasions when faced with adversity.
Kohli boasts a phenomenal record against Pakistan in T20Is, amassing 488 runs at a staggering average of 81.33, including five half-centuries. While Kohli is undoubtedly a key player for India on Sunday, his biggest challenge might not be the Pakistani bowlers, but the pitch itself. The New York surface has been a talking point since the tournament began, with its slow nature hindering batsmen's ability to play freely.
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Kaif wants Virat Kohli to tone down his aggression
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has a piece of advice to Virat Kohli ahead of the high-pressure clash against Pakistan. Kaif suggests Kohli might benefit from a more measured approach at the crease, particularly after his dismissal for 1 run against Ireland. This cautious start could help him assess the pitch conditions and adapt his strategy before attempting big shots.
"Forget Pakistan, Virat Kohli is a danger for every team. Any team that plays against him won't find it that easy to get him out. However, I feel he will have to tone down his aggression a little. He could score only one run off five balls in the last match, stepped down the wicket, got a top edge, and got out," Kaif said on Star Sports.
Kaif acknowledges Kohli's impressive IPL 2024 season, where he emerged as the tournament's leading run-scorer with a staggering 741 runs clinching the Orange Cap.
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"Virat Kohli has form and is coming after playing exceptionally well in the IPL. He scored close to 700 runs. We saw the domination where he was attacking in the powerplay and hitting boundaries, playing slog sweeps, and hitting sixes against spin," Kaif added.
Kaif suggests that Kohli might need to adjust his approach slightly for the Pakistan match. While a healthy strike rate is important, adapting to the pitch conditions and the bowling attack might be key to success.
"He is able to play every shot but I feel he needs to tone down his strike rate slightly. Go at a strike rate of around 130 and don't run close to 140-150. His role will be to bat 15 to 20 overs and score 60-70 runs. 70 runs from Virat Kohli's bat will be a very good knock. Take a little time at the start, wait for the bad balls, and then play your shots," Kaif concluded added.
All eyes will be on Kohli in the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan on June 9. Kohli boasts a great track record when it comes to chases. He's earned the moniker "chasemaster" for a reason, consistently delivering under pressure. 78*, 36*, 54, 57*, 72*, 23, 55*, and 82 – these are some of Kohli's past T20 World Cup scores which he notched while chases in India's winning causes. He also holds the record for the fastest to reach 4,000 runs in T20 cricket.
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