This year’s IPL is witnessing a dip in Virat Kohli’s form. The Indian batsman, known for consistently scoring runs, has amassed 500 runs in 10 innings at an average of 71.43, which is the highest individual tally in the tournament. However, even such a remarkable feat isn’t pleasing Kohli’s critics. Instead, he continues to face criticism regularly.
The main critique revolves around his strike rate. Despite being the highest run-scorer in IPL history, Kohli has batted at a strike rate of 147.49. Critics argue that in the era of aggressive batting, such a strike rate is not commendable.
However, Kohli has responded to critics with a defiant stance. He has stated that he is doing his job properly and winning matches for his team is his main focus. Kohli also receives support from former cricketers. One such individual is Navjot Singh Sidhu, a former national team cricketer, who has remarked that Kohli is not God; he’s just a human who plays like one. He suggests that people should not expect miracles from Kohli.
After a recent match where Royal Challengers Bangalore secured victory against Gujarat Titans by chasing down 200 runs in just 44 balls, Murali Kartik, a commentator and former Indian cricketer, wanted to know Kohli’s thoughts. He asked, “You’ve scored 500 runs in 17 matches, and over 400 runs in the last 10 matches alone.
Have you ever hesitated looking at these numbers?” To this, Kohli replied, “To be honest, no… Those who criticize my strike rate and spin play always prefer talking about these statistics. Winning matches for the team is what matters to me. You know what you’ve been doing for the last 15 years; surely, there’s a reason behind it. You keep doing it day after day, winning for the team.”
On the other hand, Kohli’s former teammate Sidhu has stood by him, stating, “If you look closely, you’ll see how he handled spinners Sunday. Tell me, how many can do that? Playing the ball with the spin, hitting it… how many can do that? Yes, Kohli himself knows, he keeps an eye on his wicket too. What else can he do?”
