During his post-match interview following Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL 2024 victory against Punjab Kings, former Indian captain Virat Kohli subtly poked fun at those who were doubting his spot in the team for the forthcoming T20 World Cup.
Following an on-air argument about Kohli’s World Cup selection between English batsman Kevin Pietersen and former Indian coach Ravi Shastri, the remarks were made. Pietersen had contended that, despite his unsatisfactory recent form, Kohli’s star power and worldwide fan base would be beneficial for the team’s T20 World Cup campaign, which would be staged in the USA and the West Indies.
Shastri retorted, saying that form and India’s greatest chance of winning the trophy should be taken into account while selecting the team rather than financial gain.One of the main reasons RCB won over Punjab Kings was because of Kohli’s innings of 77 runs in 49 balls. With a note of cynicism, he addressed the lingering controversy around his selection during the post-match interview.
“I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game in different parts of the world when it comes to T20 cricket,” Kohli joked. “I think I still have it,” he continued, implying that he was capable of giving his best.
Supporters of the Indian team, who think that Kohli’s leadership abilities and expertise are vital, were pleased with his remarks. They cited his important contribution as a young batsman to India’s 2007 T20 World Cup campaign, which was successful.
Some critics countered that instead of depending on his prior success, Kohli should concentrate on demonstrating his form in next games. They think that certain younger players are deserving of a spot in the World Cup squad since they are producing consistent results.
The forthcoming Indian Premier League matches will be keenly observed as a competition to choose the T20 World Cup team takes shape. The selectors’ assessment of Kohli’s performance in relation to his present form and his track record will be hotly contested in the months to come.