Former RCB batter AB de Villiers has come to the defense of Virat Kohli, slamming critics who questioned Kohli’s strike rate outside the powerplay in IPL 2024. De Villiers lashed out at the data-driven pundits, saying they lacked true cricket knowledge. The legendary South African asserted that statistics alone cannot capture Kohli’s immense value and impact on the game.

After hitting a match-winning knock against Gujarat Titans, Virat Kohli had lashed out at critics, saying he did not need advice since he has successfully executed his batting role for 15 years. Kohli questioned the credentials of his naysayers, asking how many matches they themselves have won for their team. AB de Villiers backed Kohli, expressing frustration with the attitude of some detractors.

“Virat Kohli has faced persistent criticism about his strike rate in recent years. I’m annoyed by the constant scrutiny. He is one of the greatest cricket players ever, with incredible success in the IPL and a key role on RCB. Yet data-driven pundits continue to criticize Kohli, despite lacking cricket expertise or experience. How many games have they played in and how many IPL centuries have they scored ?” said the former South African batter.

De Villiers stated that Kohli had a successful formula, and the team management needed to select supportive players around Kohli to make RCB victorious. However, De Villiers contended that Kohli’s optimal batting position for RCB was at number 3, with Will Jacks and Faf du Plessis opening.

“Virat has successfully batted with a proven formula that has brought victories for the team. The rest of the squad – including the coach and captain – need to strategize around Virat’s successful approach. Personally, I still believe Virat is best suited for number three in the batting order. Though he loves opening and has an incredible record doing so, batting him at three would optimize this team’s lineup with Will Jacks and Faf opening. Putting Virat at three would give the openers the best opportunity to get off to a fast start,” he continued.

“Virat has the perfect opportunity to cement his role as the anchor that he has been for so many years. Moreover, his strike rate this season is even better than his record-breaking 2016 campaign. I’m not sure where the criticism stems from, as he is batting sublimely at the moment and holding the team together. This allows players like Jacks and DK to play freely,” he stated.

With 500 runs in 10 innings, Kohli is the second-highest run scorer in the IPL 2024. Thus far, he has scored at a strike rate of 147.49.

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