Virat Kohli has undergone a remarkable transformation in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. After facing initial criticism for his slow scoring in the middle overs, he's silenced his doubters with a string of powerful performances.
Kohli, the current Orange Cap holder, has embraced a more aggressive approach, particularly against spin bowling. In the last three matches, he's consistently notched up scores of over 40 with a strike rate exceeding 150. His recent knock against Punjab Kings, a blistering 92 runs at a strike rate of nearly 200, perfectly exemplifies his newfound batting style.
While celebrating his success, Kohli has also taken subtle jabs at his critics during post-match press conferences, suggesting they questioned his commitment to scoring quickly. However, this didn't sit well with former Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar, who voiced his disapproval of such remarks.
Australian batting great Matthew Hayden wasn't surprised by Virat Kohli's ability to handle the criticism.
"I understand from a fan's point of view that Virat Kohli has copped a bit of criticism around the strike-rate. It'll always be the case because, he's a very conventional cricketer. He's a very technical cricketer, which makes him a great across all three formats. He's an extremely fit warrior. So he'll be able to take games deep in Test match cricket, one day cricket and in fact, T20 cricket as well," said Hayden on Star Sports.
Cricket legend Matthew Hayden explained that Kohli's recent success is a result of him addressing the criticisms. Hayden highlighted how Kohli actively worked on the aspects of his batting that were being highlighted in the media.
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"But one of the big concerns that we've all had is through the middle. And so, like all great champions, if there is something out there in the media or there's something where you can feel yourself to improve, then you get about making your business to do so. And I sense that that's exactly what's happened to Virat Kohli this season," he added.
Kohli's recent form in the IPL has addressed a key concern surrounding his spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup squad. While he's traditionally batted at number 3, his strike rate against spin had been a source of discussion. However, his recent dominant performances in the IPL, particularly against spinners, have effectively silenced those doubts.
"You know, those middle phases being that 138 strike-rate against spin, that's critical for India because international sides they'll line up with spin. Every side will have two, sometimes three spinners as their resource, and they'll use it to slow down a Kohli who, inside that powerplay has got such a huge energy and momentum and creates great pressure on opposition," Hayden further stated.
Hayden offered historical context, suggesting that established players throughout cricket history have responded well to criticism. He explained that when high-caliber athletes face challenges, they often use them as motivation to deliver powerful performances.
"So, I love the way that it's fueled his fire and fueled some improvement and, you know, look out. A dangerous athlete is one that's been wounded. There have been a few in my lifetime that I can remember. Steve Waugh never used to have a word to him. Kevin Pietersen, he used to love the pressure. Brian Lara, Don't talk to him. Why would you do that? He'll just smash you. So, guys that are of that kind of quality, if you try and needle them, all they do is get better," former Australia's star southpaw concluded.
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