Kohli's Middle-Phase And The Continuing Conundrum

WHEN Sunrisers Hyderabad opened the bowling with Abhishek Sharma against Virat Kohli, it was a no-brainer.

- GOMESH S

Spin is a negative match-up against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter up front. What, perhaps, came as a surprise was Kohli kicking off with a four on the very first delivery. Kohli went on to charge at Pat Cummins and flick him for four and then lofted the Australian inside out for another boundary. With Faf du Plessis too doing his bit, RCB had raced to 49/1 in three overs. At this point, Kohli was on 23 from 11 balls.

It's been a trend so far this year. Unlike the past, where Kohli has barely hit over 140 SR in the powerplay, he is striking at 155.4 in 2024. It is clear that he has had changed in his approach. After all, his T20 innings construction has been a constant debate off late. This season, with the T20 World Cup on the horizon, Kohli has shown intent up front.