India’s Batting Coach Opens up on Virat Kohli’s Promotion Up The Order- “If any change happens, it will be based on…”

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Team India’s batting coach, Vikram Rathour, found himself in a playful exchange during a press conference ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup Super Eight clash against Bangladesh. The topic of discussion? Virat Kohli’s batting position.

Virat Kohli, who had been opening the innings, struggled in the tournament, averaging a dismal 7.25 at a strike rate of under 88 in four games. This dip in form was surprising, considering his incredible performance as an opener in the 2024 IPL season just before the World Cup. Kohli led the run-scoring charts with 741 runs at an average of almost 62 and a strike rate of 154.70 in 15 outings.

When a reporter asked Rathour whether the team should consider moving Kohli back to the number 3 position, the Indian batting coach responded with a smile, “You are not happy that he is opening now? I thought everyone wanted him to open.”

Will Virat Kohli Be Dropped Down to No. 3?

Rathour clarified further, saying, “We are not thinking of dropping Kohli down to No. 3. We are happy with the batting order that we have. If any change happens, it will be based on the opposition and the playing conditions.”

Virat Kohli

Despite Virat Kohli’s struggles, Team India remained unflustered, winning all four games in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their convincing victory over Afghanistan in the Super Eight opener by 47 runs showcased the team’s resilience.

Rathour’s candid response highlighted the delicate balance between player challenges and team dynamics. While he admitted not being happy with Kohli’s form, he recognized that such challenges allowed other middle-order batters to gain valuable game time and contribute to the team’s success.

In the end, Rathour’s wit and Virat Kohli’s adaptability kept the cricketing world intrigued. As the tournament unfolded, fans eagerly awaited each twist and turn, wondering if Kohli would continue to open or find himself in a different role.

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