(Associate Press)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL) was nothing short of exceptional. The prolific right-handed batsman emerged as the highest run-scorer of the season, surpassing all others in a league of their own.
While most batsmen struggled to breach the 600-run mark, Kohli’s bat blazed a trail as he amassed a staggering 741 runs throughout the tournament. His innings included one century and five half-centuries, showcasing his consistency and prowess with the willow. However, beyond just the sheer volume of runs, it was Kohli’s strike rate that truly grabbed attention during the IPL.
Criticism had been leveled at the former India captain in the past regarding his strike rate, despite his consistent run-scoring. Yet, Kohli diligently addressed this concern during the IPL, and his efforts bore fruit. His 741 runs came at a striking rate of nearly 155, accompanied by an impressive tally of 62 fours and 38 sixes.
Former New Zealand pace bowler and commentator Simon Doull had been among those who openly questioned Kohli’s strike rate in the past. However, witnessing Kohli’s aggressive intent and big-hitting display in IPL 2024, Doull has revised his stance. He lauded Kohli for his fearless approach, particularly in dispatching towering sixes during the 17th edition of the IPL.
“I see a phenomenal player, a player who should be dominating more than what he was. That’s what I talk about (when I mention) his strike rate. I felt that he was afraid to get out because he was worried about what is behind him rather than (saying), ‘I’m so good’.
“It is the same thing I said about Babar and I had a chat with him after I talked about it in Pakistan and he said that his coaches told him the same thing. What I loved about (Kohli) this year was the intent to hit sixes,” said Doull on Cricbuzz.
Simon Doull has reportedly received death threats.
Simon Doull has disclosed that he’s been facing death threats following his critiques of Virat Kohli. However, he clarified that there are no personal issues between him and the former Indian captain. Doull commended Kohli for his remarkable performance in this year’s IPL, emphasizing the adjustments Kohli made in his game to excel in the shortest format of the game.
“He is too good to worry about getting out and that was always my point. I have said a thousand great things about Virat Kohli but I say one thing negative or construed to be negative, and I get death threats. That’s the shame of it,” said Doull.
“There has never been an issue and I would never have a reason to have personal problems. When I look at the game and the way it has moved, particularly with the impact sub, a strike rate of 130-135 didn’t cut it any more.
“What he did this year, I loved it. He took the bowling on. He played the slog sweep which we didn’t see much. He is never not going to have the fire. I thought about it afterwards that, maybe he does thrive on it. What else has he got to thrive on, after 17 years of giving the game everything he has given he needs something to spur him on.
And if I can do that from an Indian cricket point of view, that is good. I love coming to this country and working here, if I can spur him on in some way then good on him turning around and trying to prove people like me wrong. Because that is just an opinion, I get paid for mine,” he added.
Kohli is set to showcase his skills in the upcoming T20 World Cup, kicking off next month. Team India will initiate their journey in the tournament with a match against Ireland on June 5th.
