AB de Villiers believes India can improve Virat Kohli’s performance by moving him back to bat at number 3 and playing a more attacking style overall.
Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers believes India can get more out of Virat Kohli by shifting him back to the number 3 batting position in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli has struggled as an opener, scoring only five runs in three innings so far.
While some experts believe Kohli should continue opening due to the difficult pitches in the group stage, de Villiers argues that Kohli’s true value lies in the middle order. “I have always said, Please bat Virat at No. 3. Especially with the better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at No. 3. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I don’t see any reasons for opening,” said de Villiers.
De Villiers expressed concern about Kohli facing the new ball, where he could be dismissed cheaply. He suggested that Kohli could benefit from entering later in the innings, using his experience to build partnerships.
De Villiers also commented on India’s overall approach to ICC tournaments. “Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum,” concluded the former cricketer.
India will begin their Super 8s campaign against Afghanistan on Thursday, June 20th, in Barbados. De Villiers believes the team has the potential to win the World Cup, but they need to play a more aggressive brand of cricket.
Last Updated on June 19, 2024
