Ahead of their IPL 2024 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings' (PBKS) pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada has labelled Virat Kohli the toughest batsman to bowl to in international cricket. Rabada made this statement just a day before facing Kohli in Dharamsala at the picturesque HPCA stadium on May 9. This high-profile encounter adds another layer of excitement for fans eager to see these two cricketing stars go head-to-head.
Virat Kohli's surprise appearance on the Willow Talk Podcast added a spark to their interview with South African pace bowler Kagiso Rabada. Rabada was caught off guard when Kohli appeared unexpectedly on-screen during the interview. A video clip capturing this spontaneous moment has taken social media by storm, showcasing Rabada's surprised reaction.
This is how the conversation between Rabada and Kohli unfolded
Spotting Kohli on screen, Rabada exclaims to the interviewer, "Look, there's Virat Kohli right there, dancing away!" A beat later, he turns to address Kohli directly, "Hey, I'm actually on a podcast right now!" Kohli, curious, inquires, "With whom?" Rabada replies with a chuckle, "It's called Willow Talk."
The interviewer, seizing the moment, prompted Rabada to invite Kohli to join the conversation.Rabada readily obliged, and a smiling Kohli appeared, greeting the audience with a casual "Hello, boys! What's happening?" He playfully acknowledged Rabada's presence with a grin, saying, "Big boy KG here!"
The interviewer then tried to steer the conversation towards Kohli's thoughts on Rabada's bowling. However, Kohli, unable to hear the question due to Rabada's headphones, launched into a humorous response. "I can't hear anything, so I am just going to keep blabbering as I always do," Kohli said with a chuckle. His playful comment added to the lighthearted atmosphere. Rabada, understanding the situation, chimed in with a playful jab: "He thinks I'm a weak bowler!"
Kohli, unaware of the missed question, continued his friendly banter with Rabada before bidding farewell and leaving Rabada to continue the podcast. "That's a pretty cool guest on your show," Rabada remarked with a smile as Kohli walked off.
Everyone is aware of the Rabada, Kohli's on-field duel. During India's recent tour of South Africa, Rabada dismissed Kohli twice in the first Test, once for 38 and later caught off Marco Jansen's delivery. The second Test saw a similar story unfold, with Rabada dismissing Kohli for 46, while Jansen again took his wicket in the second innings. Rabada acknowledges Kohli's relentless determination to dominate the game.
"It's extremely difficult bowl to Virat Kohli. Because his willingness to come out to the Top is amazing. He has everything in his game. His hunger for runs is amazing, his fitness, his defense, he has power game as well," - Rabada further added.
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Virat Kohli's scorching form in IPL 2024
Virat Kohli's IPL form is scorching hot in the ongoing IPL 2024. The former Indian captain currently leads the Orange Cap race with a staggering 542 runs in just 11 matches. He has scored runs at a phenomenal average of 67.75 riding on four impressive half-centuries and a century under his belt. Ruturaj Gaikwad trails closely behind him by a mere run in the Orange Cap race.
The clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings holds historical significance. While Punjab boast a historical advantage with 17 wins in their 32-match head-to-head record against Bengaluru, the venue itself holds a unique story. This will be only the second time these two teams have met at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, with Punjab securing a convincing 111-run victory back in 2011. RCB will certainly look to settle the score with a win against PBKS on May 9, which will also boost their playoff chances.
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