Parthiv Patel advocated for Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli opening partnership for the T20 World Cup citing Kohli’s excellent IPL form.
Amidst the hot debate over where Virat Kohli should bat, former Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has called for Kohli to open the batting alongside Rohit Sharma at the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.
“Virat Kohli’s current form is excellent. I want him to partner with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. With their batting, we can end India’s 17-year T20 World Cup title drought,” Parthiv Patel told IANS at the launch of the inaugural edition of the Legends Intercontinental T-20 League.
Kohli’s recent success as an opener for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL adds weight to Patel’s suggestion. He scored 741 runs with a strike rate of 155.60 before RCB’s elimination.
Patel also commented on India’s spin attack, which includes four spinners (Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel) and just three pacers with two all-rounders.
“The conditions in the West Indies, and likely the pitches in the USA, will favour spinners after a few overs. Selecting four spinners is a wise decision, unless it proves to be a disadvantage. Chahal’s recent bowling has been impressive, and Kuldeep has always been a reliable option,” Patel explained.
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When asked about the wicketkeeper’s position, Patel firmly endorsed Sanju Samson. “Sanju Samson should be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper. His leadership skills, both with the bat and as captain, are valuable assets for the team,” concluded the former cricketer.
Meanwhile, India will begin its T20 World Cup campaign on June 5th against Ireland, followed by a much-anticipated clash with Pakistan on June 9th.
Last Updated on May 24, 2024