One of the well-known former Australian skipper Aaron Finch has managed to shrug off the debate surrounding Virat Kohli’s batting style and conflict regarding his eligibility in Indian team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. While Virat Kohli was one of the few players to play just a few T20Is since the 2022 T20 World Cup, at times he was threatened by up-and-coming players who perform better after his poor run at the world scene.
Coupled with his previous words about his name being used to promote the game, the selectors face an interesting dilemma, especially if he has a strong 2024 Indian Premier League campaign.
Kohli spoke confidently, asserting his abilities remained intact. His batting prowess echoed this claim, securing victory for RCB through a remarkable innings against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their inaugural home match. Though Kohli grappled with comparable challenges ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, he ultimately regained his form, delivering a standout performance.
Aaron Finch failed to understand how the discussion over Kohli’s place erupts before a major event.
“I can’t understand why every time there is an ICC event coming up in any format, people always talk about Virat Kohli, is he under pressure for his spot? That is the biggest load of rubbish I have ever heard in my life. He is the greatest player that I have seen in white ball cricket.”
Kohli’s style has been the most difficult challenge for Indian management, who are eager to infuse freshness into the team with an all-out aggressive approach. Although it is early days, Kohli demonstrated hints of that role during his innings against PBKS, particularly in the middle overs.
Aaron Finch Hits Back at Criticism, Defends Virat Kohli
Kohli, the current Orange Cap holder in IPL 2024 after two matches, has recently returned to cricket after missing the home Test series against England due to the birth of his second kid. So far, the right-handed batter appears to be in good rhythm, and if his words and intent are any indicator, he is ready to compete for a spot in the World Cup squad based on merit.
Aaron Finch believes Kohli’s habit of showing up in crucial games distinguishes him from the others.
“It does not matter whether he strikes at 140, and there are guys that strike at 160. If I am picking a team, you are picking a guy, who you know day in day out, gets the job done in the big games. So, it is just ludicrous that we keep having this conversation.”
Aaron Finch
Kohli will be in action on Friday, March 29, when RCB hosts the Kolkata Knight Riders.
