Former Australian captain Tim Paine weighed in on India's chances at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 during a discussion with Aaron Finch and Michael Clarke on the 'Around the Wicket' podcast. Paine suggested that Virat Kohli's batting form will be a critical factor for India's success in the tournament.
Kohli's form key to India's T20 World Cup hopes, says Paine
Paine emphasised the importance of Virat Kohli's form for India's chances at the upcoming T20 World Cup. During a discussion on the 'Around the Wicket' podcast, Paine suggested that without a peak performance from Kohli, India's quest to end their ICC trophy drought might continue. However, Paine acknowledged the positive signs for India. He pointed to Kohli's current red-hot form in the IPL 2024, where the batsman has already amassed over 650 runs. This upswing mirrors the significant role Glenn Maxwell plays for Australia's success, according to Paine. Just as Australia relies heavily on Maxwell's explosive batting, India's T20 World Cup hopes seem to be closely tied to Kohli's performance.
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“I can't see India winning the World Cup unless Virat Kohli has a really strong World Cup – bit similar to Glenn Maxwell's form. I know he hasn't been red-hot as of late but I can't see Australia winning the World Cup unless Maxwell has a blinder,” Paine was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.
When discussing Virat Kohli's batting position for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup, the former Australian cricketer said:
“I certainly would [have Kohli open]. I think Virat Kohli has earned the right to bat wherever he wants, particularly when he’s in this kind of form. I was the selection or coach in that team, I would want my best player, the best player in red-hot form, I would want him facing as many balls as possible so I’ll try and slot him back at the top.”
While the upcoming T20 World Cup looms large, Kohli's red-hot form in IPL 2024 provides a much-needed boost for the Indian team. He has amassed a staggering 661 runs in just 13 games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a stark contrast to the struggles of his Australian counterpart, Glenn Maxwell. Maxwell's worst season ever saw him score a meager 36 runs across 8 matches for the Punjab Kings, averaging a paltry 5.14.
Kohli's blazing form, alongside the impressive contributions of teammate Rajat Patidar, has kept RCB's playoffs hopes alive. Their crucial final league stage encounter against the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 18 becomes a do-or-die battle for a top-four finish.
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