Virat Kohli's batting in the recent IPL 2024 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) match raised some eyebrows. Virat Kohli played a slow knock which saw him scoring 51 runs off 43 balls at a strike rate of 118.60 to help RCB post a total of 206/7. This was particularly concerning because his scoring pace dropped significantly after the powerplay overs ended. He took a staggering 25 deliveries to add just 19 runs, resulting in a low strike rate of 118.60. This sluggish knock stood out even more considering the aggressive batting displayed by other RCB batsmen. In fact, it could have potentially jeopardised the team's victory if not for explosive batting by Rajat Patidar (50 runs off 20 balls) and contributions from other batters.
Sunil Gavaskar left disappointed after Kohli's slow knock
Even Kohli's biggest cheerleader Sunil Gavaskar was left disappointed by his batting approach in the recent SRH versus RCB match. Kohli started strong, blasting 32 runs off his first 18 balls. RCB capitalised on his aggression, reaching a healthy 61/1 within the powerplay. However, things took a sharp turn after that. Once the field restrictions eased, Kohli's scoring pace plummeted. He managed a mere 19 runs off his next 25 deliveries, a stark contrast to his initial fiery display. This dramatic slowdown visibly frustrated Gavaskar, who expressed his disappointment on air.
"It's just been singles, singles and singles from Kohli. There is [Dinesh] Karthik to come; there is [Mahipal] Lomror to come. You've got to try and take a few risks now. Look at Patidar. He had already hit three sixes in that over. If he wanted, he could have taken a single or left the ball for a wide. But no, he went for it because the opportunity was there," Gavaskar said while doing commentary on air.
"That's the approach RCB now need. Yes, Kohli has played and missed; it's not easy, because when you've been in your shell, you've just been working the ones, suddenly to connect is not going to be easy. But that is what Kohli needs to do; needs to attempt. He has got to attempt the big shots now," he added
While Virat Kohli reached his 50 in 37 balls, the contrast with his partner Rajat Patidar was stark. As Sunil Gavaskar pointed out, Patidar smashed his fifty in a mere 19 balls. This was Kohli's third fifty of the IPL season, all at a good pace. It marked his fourth consecutive IPL fifty in Hyderabad, a commendable feat. But a concerning aspect was his lack of boundaries – none for nine overs, and none for RCB for four overs! This raised questions about his approach.
Kohli's innings eventually ended with a dismissal by Jaydev Unadkat, who was celebrating his 100th IPL match with a stellar 3/30 performance.
Thankfully, the platform for RCB's victory was set by Cameron Green's quickfire 37 off 20 balls and Patidar's blistering knock. Notably, Patidar even took apart Mayank Markande in an over, smashing four sixes. RCB's final score of 206/7 proved too much for Sunrisers Hyderabad, who fell short by 35 runs, restricted to 171/8.
RCB will next face Gujarat Titans (GT) on April 28.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
