Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has predicted that Virat Kohli will remain a strong contender for the Orange Cap in the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Chopra cited similarities between Kohli’s current form and his form leading up to the 2016 edition of the IPL.
Chopra made the statement after Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) impressive opening game win against Mumbai Indians. In the match, Kohli smashed an unbeaten 82 off just 49 deliveries to help RCB chase a target of 172 in just 16.2 overs. Kohli’s innings displayed his sublime form and skill with the bat, and Chopra believes that he will continue to perform at a high level in the upcoming matches.
“From Virat Kohli’s knock, it seems he will remain in the Orange Cap race this year. There is some similarity between 2016 and this season. He was in sublime form for six months at the international level ahead of IPL 2016. Now also he is close to that sublime form at the international level,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
Chopra also praised Faf du Plessis for his aggressive approach in the match, which allowed Kohli to catch up and eventually dominate the innings. He highlighted the importance of senior players like Kohli and du Plessis stepping up for RCB if they are to end their drought and win their first IPL trophy in 2023.
“When you are chasing and especially if it is the Chinnaswamy ground, one plus one is not two, but it becomes 11 when two openers play like that,” Chopra added.
RCB will be hoping to build on their impressive start to the season and continue their winning momentum in the upcoming matches