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Published 16:07 IST, August 19th 2023

Ex-India coach terms Virat Kohli's innings vs Pakistan in T20I WC as 'batting masterclass'

The former India coach expressed his confidence in Kohli's abilities, predicting a successful run for the Indian captain in the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Reported by: Vishal Tiwari
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Gregg Chappell
Virat Kohli shakes hands with Pakistan players after the match (Image: AP) | Image: self
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Virat Kohli has earned a reputation of being one of the most formidable and consistent batsmen in the game. His consistency across all formats is remarkable, showcasing his versatility and adaptability to different styles of play. Kohli's mastery lies not only in his impressive strokeplay but also in his astute game awareness, allowing him to anchor the innings or accelerate as the innings as the situation demands. As a batsman who thrives under pressure, Kohli's performances during crucial matches have often been a defining factor in India's success. 

3 things you need to know

  • Virat Kohli played a brilliant knock against Pakistan in 2022 T20 World Cup to help India win
  • It was probably Kohli's greatest innings in the shortest format of international cricket
  • Kohli will next be seen in action against Pakistan on September 2, 2023 in the Asia Cup

Also Read: 'He Is Perhaps More Talented Than Virat Kohli': Shoaib Akhtar's Huge Praise For India Star

Greg Chappell heaps praise on Virat Kohli

Former Team India coach Greg Chappell has lauded Virat Kohli's exceptional performance in last year's T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, labeling it a "batting masterclass." Chappell expressed his confidence in Kohli's abilities, predicting a successful run for the Indian captain in the upcoming ODI World Cup set to take place in India later this year.

Reflecting on Kohli's innings, Chappell highlighted the elegance of his shots, noting his restraint from resorting to rash slogs or aggressive charging of bowlers. Instead, Kohli showcased a repertoire of well-timed and conventionally played cricket shots, tailored to the merit of each ball.

"If you go and see that innings [vs Pak in 2022 T20 World Cup] again, the one thing that will stand out is the kind of shots he played. He did not back away and try to slog, he did not charge the bowler, and most of his shots were conventional cricket shots played according to the merit of the ball. In my book, it was the perfect batting masterclass by the master himself," Chappell told RevSportz. 

"I am sure Virat will want to be in a similar mental space in this World Cup. If he can approach the tournament with a free mind and prepare well, which he always does, he will score a lot of runs for India and will be a key influence in the competition," he added. 

Also Read: Sourav Ganguly Shuts Down Former PAK Pacer Shoaib Akhtar's Radical Advice For Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli's MCG masterclass stuns Pakistan

Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls in the highly-watched match at the MCG to help India win against Pakistan by 4 wickets. Kohli was named the player of the match for his brilliant knock. Kohli is currently away from the game after the series against West Indies. He will next be seen in action during the Asia Cup 2023. India will play Pakistan on September 2, 2023

Image: AP

15:58 IST, August 19th 2023