Prior to India’s match versus Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024, former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal warned India about their batting lineup. Akmal believed that Virat Kohli should bat at his customary No. 3 position for India and not open with Rohit Sharma. On June 9, Sunday, at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, the bitter rivals will square off in a thrilling match. The supporters are incredibly excited for the two neighboring countries to compete in New York, and the anticipation is at an all-time high.
Akmal expressed his disapproval of Kohli starting at the top of the order and thought that India’s batting order was wrong. He believed that, as in the past, Kohli might add that extra cushion and win the game. Akmal desired that Yashasvi Jaiswal debut with Rohit.
“I don’t think the batting order is correct. Virat Kohli can take the pressure at No.3 and finish the match. That is very important for Team India. Yashasvi Jaiswal should open the batting. Kohli should come at 3. If India sticks to this batting order (of Kohli) opening, then they may get stuck at some point. Kohli holds one end up and finishes off the game. I think India are making a mistake by opening with Kohli,” Akmal said on his YouTube channel.
Will Virat continue to open?
On June 5, Wednesday, during their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 against Ireland, Kohli—who thrived as an opener for RCB in the IPL 2024—was forced to open with Rohit. After facing five balls, though, Kohli was out for just one run. But when they play Pakistan, the management will likely try to maintain the same lineup. The team would continue to bat with Rishabh Pant at No. 3 for India, according to batting coach Vikram Rathour.
Akmal also praised India’s convincing eight-wicket victory over Ireland, believing their team will be more suited to the New York conditions. India will have self-assurance. Both Siraj and Bumrah bowled brilliantly. Pandya Hardik also grabbed wickets. It will also be advantageous that they have three games at the same location, according to Akmal.