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According to former India player Mohammad Kaif, India stands at its strongest position to secure the T20 World Cup 2024 when they take on South Africa in the final on June 29. Kaif believes that this tournament might mark the final World Cup appearance together for both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He suggested that it would be a fitting conclusion if India emerges victorious and lifts the title this time around.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma has maintained impressive form throughout the T20 World Cup 2024, leading his team with distinction. He has accumulated 248 runs in seven matches at an average of 41.33 and an impressive strike rate of 155.97.
In contrast, Virat Kohli has struggled to find his rhythm in the tournament, amassing just 75 runs at an average of 10.71. Despite his current form, Kohli holds a stellar record in T20 World Cup history, topping the run-scoring charts. However, Rohit Sharma has closed the gap and is now only 5 runs shy of Kohli’s tally.
Mohammad Kaif backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to lift T20 World Cup 2024 title
While speaking on Star Sports, Mohammad Kaif backed India to lift the title and claimed that the Men in Blue wouldn’t get a better chance to lift the trophy again.
“The age of both the players (Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma) is very similar. So, we don’t actually know when they will play a World Cup together for the next time. This is a great time when both of these players are in good form. Although Kohli hasn’t scored runs in this tournament, but his past 2-3 years have been excellent,” Kaif stated.
Kaif praised Rohit Sharma for demonstrating how to perform under pressure in significant matches. He also emphasized that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s familiarity with facing Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje multiple times will give them insights into what to anticipate from these bowlers.
“Rohit Sharma has set an example of how to play use powerplay restrictions in big games. He scored runs in the quarter-finals (last Super 8 game against Australia) and semi-finals (against England). Both the players have played Rabada and Nortje several times. So, I don’t think that India will get such a chance again,” the former India cricketer said.
South Africa a tough side to beat
Despite India’s recent strong form, navigating past South Africa poses a formidable challenge for captain Rohit Sharma and his team. The Proteas boast formidable bowlers such as Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, capable of dismantling any batting lineup on their best days.
Adding to their strength, South Africa features a lineup of seasoned batters including Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram, and David Miller, each possessing the experience and ability to sway the game in their favor.
The upcoming match promises to be a rigorous test for Team India. Nonetheless, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are determined to seize the opportunity and lift the trophy this time around.
