Virat Kohli, the stalwart of Indian cricket, has expressed his conviction that the 50-over format brings out the best in his performance. With the ODI World Cup just around the corner, this affirmation could be a positive sign for Team India. As the World Cup commences on October 5 in Ahmedabad, the host nation, India, enters the tournament as one of the favourites despite the 10-year drought in securing an ICC title.
Kohli’s confidence in the ODI format stems from his belief that it thoroughly tests his batting skills. He emphasizes that ODI cricket challenges him as a batsman in multiple dimensions, allowing him to embrace the pressure and adapt to different match situations to contribute to his team’s victory. According to Kohli, the ODI format presents him with a consistent opportunity to assess and enhance all aspects of his batting prowess, which is why he enjoys playing it so much.
“So, I think it tests you as a batsman completely, and I feel the ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me because I like to embrace that challenge and play according to the situation to help my team win. I have always tried to do that, so yeah, as I said, it gives me an opportunity to test myself regularly, all aspects of my batting, and that’s why I really enjoy playing ODI cricket,” Kohli said.
Kohli’s record in the 50-over format is nothing short of exceptional. His average of 66 while batting second and 48 while batting first underscores his adaptability and effectiveness across different match scenarios. With a remarkable 46 centuries in ODIs, he scored 26 centuries while chasing, setting a new benchmark for the hundreds in run-chases. This fantastic feat highlights his exceptional ability to excel under pressure.
The impending ODI World Cup, a tournament of immense significance, marks India’s cricket calendar. Before the World Cup extravaganza, India’s journey includes the Asia Cup, a precursor to the grand event. The team is gearing up to commence its campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan, setting the stage for an intense battle in Pallekele.
Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif commended Kohli’s recent performances, especially in clashes against Pakistan. He hailed Kohli’s leadership role and ability to seize control of the game, particularly during crucial run-chases. Kaif highlighted Kohli’s exceptional display in the T20 World Cup against Pakistan, attributing his form to his pivotal performances in the Asia Cup, including a century against Afghanistan.
Kaif said, “His (Kohli’s) performance in Australia at the T20 World Cup (last year), against Pakistan, he played magnificently. He takes full responsibility and is a chase master. The form that he had in that World Cup was because of his performances in the Asia Cup (2022), starting from that century he hit against Afghanistan. He had a dry run before that, but after his performances in the Asia Cup, he did not stop; he won matches, even the match against Pakistan in Australia.”
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Kaif acknowledged the pressure that Pakistani bowlers would face while encountering Kohli. The fact that Kohli has previously faced these bowlers, particularly in the T20 World Cup match, gives him valuable insights into their bowling strategies. This familiarity could give Kohli an edge and intensify the rivalry between the two sides.
“And, the fact that he has played the Pakistani bowlers in their last match at the T20 World Cup, he will know how every Pakistani bowler bowls.” Kaif further added.
Virat Kohli’s unwavering belief in the ODI format and his ability to shine under pressure signifies his dedication to the sport. As India embarks on its journey to the ODI World Cup, the team carries the hopes and aspirations of a cricket-loving nation. With Kohli’s confidence, experience, and exceptional skills, India’s prospects in the tournament remain promising, with the potential to break the title drought and etch a new chapter in the nation’s cricketing history.
