Ahead of India’s second Super Eight stage game in the 2024 T20 World Cup against Bangladesh, former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed confidence that Virat Kohli would bounce back stronger after a series of underwhelming performances. Speaking on Star Sports, Sidhu emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
“If a powerful person doesn’t showcase his power, then that person does get hurt, and should get hurt,” Sidhu remarked, reflecting on Kohli’s recent struggles. He added, “I will learn only after I fall,” highlighting the idea that setbacks can be valuable learning experiences.
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Navot Sidhu praised Kohli’s mental fortitude, saying, “Mujhe lagta hai Virat Kohli mentally itne strong hain ke woh abhyaas se apni galtiyon pe haavi hona chaahte hain (I feel Kohli is mentally so strong that he wants to overpower his mistakes through training). He wants to overcome those (mistakes).”
Despite being the leading run-getter in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Kohli has found it difficult to replicate his form in this year’s tournament, which is being held in the USA and West Indies. So far, he has amassed only 29 runs in four innings, including three single-digit scores. Batting coach Vikram Rathour also acknowledged Kohli’s struggles and expressed a desire to see him return to form.
@sherryontopp believes @imVkohli is mentally very strong! 💪🏼🫡
Will Kohli play an impactful knock against Bangladesh tonight in their Super Thriller? 🤔
Don’t miss the action in the 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝟖 – World Cup ka Super Stage 👉 #INDvBAN | TODAY, 6 PM | #T20WorldCupOnStar pic.twitter.com/opixheUcU9
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 22, 2024
“I’m not happy. I would love it if he gets going and scores more runs. But it is good that when you are challenged at times, the guys who are not getting too much batting in India sometimes, they are the ones who put up scores, and our middle order came to play. So, it was good to see,” Rathour stated during the pre-match press conference.
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When asked if Kohli would continue to bat at No.3 in Saturday’s clash against Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Rathour remained non-committal. “We are not thinking along those lines. We are happy with the batting order that we have. If any change happens, that will be to do with the opposition and the conditions that we come across.”
As India prepares for their crucial match against Bangladesh, fans and team management alike are hopeful that Kohli will rediscover his form and contribute significantly to the team’s success in the tournament.
