Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has offered a candid take on Virat Kohli’s evolution in the IPL, suggesting that the star batter’s improved strike rate is largely driven by external pressure and self-awareness. According to Manjrekar, Kohli’s shift in approach over the past few seasons has significantly benefited the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Since IPL 2023, Kohli has noticeably upped his scoring tempo. Once known for anchoring innings at a steady pace, he has now consistently batted at a much higher strike rate. His numbers reflect that transformation clearly — from 139.82 in 2023 to an impressive 154.7 in 2024. During RCB’s title-winning campaign last season, he maintained a strong strike rate of 144.71. In IPL 2026, Kohli has taken it a step further, scoring 351 runs in eight matches at a remarkable strike rate of 162.50.
Sanjay Manjrekar believes this change is not due to any technical overhaul but rather a mental adjustment. “This is the same Virat Kohli; nothing has really changed,” he said. “It is only that he has decided to bat quicker because he could sense the pressure and the criticism about him batting too slowly.”
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He also pointed out that Kohli’s earlier approach was shaped by the need to carry the innings deep, especially when the middle order lacked consistency.
“Back then, he would hit a boundary and then rotate strike, focusing on staying till the end because he felt responsible for the bulk of the scoring,” Sanjay Manjrekar explained. “That’s why his strike rate hovered around 125-130 despite being set.”
However, Kohli’s willingness to trust the batting unit and play more freely has had a ripple effect on the team.
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“RCB changed when Kohli started batting with more intent and didn’t make himself indispensable,” Manjrekar added. “That’s when the rest of the batting line-up began to flourish.” This evolution has not only silenced critics but also redefined Kohli’s role in modern T20 cricket.
