Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has vehemently defended the inclusion of Virat Kohli in India’s T20 World Cup squad, dismissing concerns about his recent form.
Pathan emphasized Kohli’s exceptional international record, highlighting his average of around 50 and strike rate of 137 in T20 cricket. He argued that these numbers translate to a high-quality performance, with a strike rate approaching 190.
Pathan also pointed to Kohli’s match-winning abilities, recalling his pivotal role in India’s victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He stressed the importance of experience, especially in challenging conditions like those expected in the West Indies and the USA.
“At such a time when there will be World Cup in West Indies and America, you will need the experience,” Pathan said. “In my mind, such a question will never come that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should not be part of the World Cup team.”
Pathan’s comments come amid ongoing debates about Kohli’s place in the T20 team following his struggles in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, Pathan believes that Kohli’s international record and experience make him an indispensable asset for India.
Despite RCB’s recent victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL, the team remains at the bottom of the standings. However, Pathan’s defense of Kohli suggests that the former Indian captain remains a key figure in the team’s plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
