Virat Kohli’s stellar batting for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024 has sparked discussion about him opening the innings for India alongside Rohit Sharma in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Currently the top run-scorer in IPL 2024, Kohli notched another half-century against Gujarat Titans on Sunday.
His exploits have prompted experts like former captain Sourav Ganguly to suggest Kohli should open for India. However, legendary batter Virender Sehwag believes Kohli should stay at number 3, citing Sachin Tendulkar’s decision to move down the order during the 2007 World Cup as evidence. While Kohli’s form makes him an enticing opening option, Sehwag argues his proven success at number 3 is more valuable for India’s World Cup hopes.
“If I were in the team, I would not have Kohli open the batting. Instead, he would be sent at number 3, with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal opening. Managing the middle overs would be his responsibility – he is aware that if there is an early wicket, he can steady the innings during the powerplay. However, if a wicket falls late, the captain and coach must instruct him to maintain momentum. A player has to fulfill these responsibilities,” he said on. Cricbuzz.
“Though Sachin Tendulkar preferred opening, he moved down the order to bat at number four in the 2007 World Cup. He had to do it for the team and carried the momentum set by the openers. Even the best players must be flexible – if your team already has two capable openers, being asked to bat at three is a role you have to embrace. Virat Kohli understands what’s best for the team,” he added.
In the meantime, following his team’s IPL 2024 triumph over GT, Kohli slammed his critics.
“I do not pay much attention to people criticizing my strike-rate and ability against spin. For me, it is about winning matches for the team. I’ve done this successfully for 15 years, day in and day out. You need that experience to truly understand what it takes. People can make assumptions from the commentary box, but those doing it day in and day out know the reality. Batting in these situations has become muscle memory for me now,” Virat Kohli said.