Once again, Virat Kohli demonstrated that the fundamentals of cricket remain unchanged, despite the emergence of innovative batting styles among young cricketers. While a daring approach may entertain spectators, it is not sustainable in the long run. Playing sensibly on the field with careful calculations as a batsman will always yield better results than aggressively pursuing your target. This was clearly illustrated yesterday when India triumphed over Australia in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy, thanks to Virat’s classic innings of 84 runs off 98 deliveries, which included just five fours and relied heavily on running between the wickets—the essence of cricket.
‘King’ Kohli may be 36-years-old, but he is as fit as anyone. Even younger cricketers will struggle to match his level of fitness, as he still sprints like a hare between the wickets. He is a dynamic presence on the field and always brimming with energy; there’s never a dull moment when he plays cricket. If he has an off day with the bat, he’ll contribute in other ways while fielding, and even on his less stellar days, he motivates his teammates with an intensity that can seem aggressive at times. However, his desire to excel for his country remains unwavering.
Let’s focus on another crucial performance by Kohli in a successful run chase during a knockout game.
Soaking pressure in typical Virat Kohli style
After Shubman Gill was dismissed cheaply, Kohli came to the crease with his characteristic confidence, prepared to challenge the opposition alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, who had been playing recklessly during his short yet entertaining innings. However, the captain soon left the field, leaving India in a precarious situation.
Virat Kohli calmed the nerves by gently nudging the ball around for singles and twos while partnering with Shreyas Iyer, who was a bit more aggressive and hit boundaries that helped keep up the required run rate for the chase.
An inning that was a mix of caution and aggression.
He hit two boundaries, one from a lofted drive and the other from a genuine pull shot along the ground, which got him off to a good start. However, as he assessed the game situation, he began to manipulate the field. With Iyer finding his rhythm against left-arm spinner Connolly, Virat Kohli played his own style. That’s what makes him exceptional; he never tries to match his batting partner but knows when to accelerate and when to build his innings.
Virat Kohli held one end even as wickets fell at the other
One of Virat’s remarkable qualities is his ability to take the game deep through consistent strike rotation. His style is very physical; he enjoys running hard, turning singles into doubles and doubles into triples.
This strategy keeps the scoreboard ticking without taking risks, which frustrates both opposing bowlers and captains. Even when bowlers perform well and fielders are positioned correctly, runs continue to flow. It’s important to note that most batsmen tend to opt for aerial shots that might score 10 or 12 runs in two deliveries, but this approach carries a significant risk. Losing a wicket opens the door for the fielding team to apply pressure, whereas Kohli stands out because he focuses on staying at the crease and knows how to target specific bowlers effectively.
Virat Kohli missed the ton, but the knock was nevertheless a game-changing one
Kohli, who had struggled against spinners in the past, played exceptionally well against both Zampa and Sangha. He swept and pulled his way to a half-century off 53 deliveries.
Despite his efforts, he was determined to secure a victory for India. After Iyer was dismissed for 45, Kohli formed an important partnership with Axar Patel and KL Rahul. Just when it seemed like Virat would achieve another century with India only 40 runs away from the target, he attempted to hit Zampa but fell short by 16 runs of reaching that milestone.
Nevertheless, he left the field knowing India was nearly home while the Australians appeared deflated. Pandya and Rahul then completed the task effortlessly, leading India to the final of the Champions Trophy.
Here’s a humble observation
While Test cricket differs from ODIs, the discussions surrounding Kohli’s susceptibility to deliveries that move away have been prevalent.
However, his recent innings against Pakistan and another match-winning performance against Australia demonstrated that he still possesses his skills and has several more years of cricket ahead of him.
A few poor series do not diminish the greatness of exceptional players; we all understand that form is temporary, but class is enduring.
