Virat Kohli reflected on his batting approach, the team’s turnaround, and the importance of upcoming results for their IPL playoff hopes.
Virat Kohli struck a crucial 92 runs to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a convincing 60-run win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 9th. This victory marked RCB’s fourth win in a row and propelled them to 10 points in the standings. Meanwhile, PBKS were officially eliminated from playoff contention as they can only reach a maximum of 12 points with two matches remaining.
Kohli, who was dropped twice early in his innings, played a well-rounded knock, using his experience and skill to score his sixth IPL fifty of the season. He reached his half-century in just 32 balls and continued to accelerate, adding another 40 runs in the next 15 deliveries. His knock included seven boundaries and six sixes.
Despite being named player of the match, Kohli acknowledged the importance of quality over quantity in his batting approach. He explained his strategy against spinners, stating, “For me it’s still quality over quantity. For me it works really well. Also the understanding of the game allows you to practice less, just try to replicate what I have done in the past. Still aiming to improve aspects of the game that you want to get batter at. It’s an evolving process.”
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Kohli revealed a tactical shift in his batting, specifically against spin. “I brought out the slogsweep against the spinners. I didn’t practice it, I know I have hit it the past. Always looking to expose that side of the field against spin. I know I need to take risks, it needs a bit of conviction. I have been managing to stay ahead of that thought. I am trying to keep up with the strike rate for me and the team,” remarked Kohli.
He also admitted that RCB’s performance in the first half of the tournament was subpar. He further said that the team’s self-reflection and determination to improve led to a turning point in their performance, particularly the encounter against KKR. “We wanted to play for our self-respect. We just can’t go out there and play in such a way and disappoint our fans. The confidence is back and we are on a roll,” concluded Kohli.
Last Updated on May 10, 2024
