Virat Kohli Dropped from T20 World Cup 2024 Final
Struggles Throughout the Tournament
Veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli has been dropped from the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa, scheduled to be played in Bridgetown on June 29. Kohli has struggled throughout the tournament, scoring only 75 runs in 7 matches at an average of around 11 and a strike rate of 100. This poor performance is a major reason for his exclusion from the final.
Poor Semi-Final Performance
In the semi-final against England, Kohli was dismissed in the third over by Reece Topley, scoring just 9 runs. This match added to his disappointing performance in the tournament, which saw him registering two ducks as well.
Contrast with IPL 2024 Performance
Kohli’s current form in the T20 World Cup is a stark contrast to his stellar performance in the IPL 2024, where he scored over 700 runs at a strike rate above 150. The sudden downturn in the World Cup has led to criticism and scrutiny from former players and cricket analysts.
Ravi Shastri’s Analysis
Former India coach Ravi Shastri pointed out that Kohli’s approach of going for aggressive shots too early in his innings has been detrimental. Shastri emphasized that Kohli’s game is more effective when he spends more time at the crease before attempting big shots. This change in approach has affected his performance, leading to his early dismissals.
Captain Rohit Sharma’s Support
Despite Kohli’s poor form, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has backed him throughout the tournament. After the semi-final, Rohit stated that Kohli’s form was not a concern and emphasized his quality and importance to the team. However, the decision to drop him for the final indicates a strategic move to field the best possible team.
Persistent Rain and Match Conditions
The T20 World Cup 2024 has been plagued by persistent rain, disrupting the flow of the tournament. Rain is also expected in Bridgetown on the day of the final, adding another layer of uncertainty to the match. This year’s unpredictable weather has made it challenging for players to maintain consistency and rhythm.
A Blockbuster Showdown Awaits
Despite Kohli’s absence, a blockbuster showdown is expected when India takes on South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final. With both teams in top form, the final promises to be an exciting and closely contested match, provided the weather does not play spoilsport.
