(Credit ICC)
Karthik characterized Virat Kohli’s struggle amidst the Covid-19 period as notably unsettling prior to India’s T20 WC opener.
As the T20 World Cup kicked off on Sunday, attention refocuses on Team India, eager to break their trophy dry spell since their ICC victory in 2013. Despite close calls, including a loss to Australia in the recent ODI World Cup, India remains determined.
All eyes are set to return to Virat Kohli as he is anticipated to lead India’s batting charge. The ex-captain’s stellar performance in IPL 2024, clinching the Orange Cap and propelling RCB to the playoffs, has only heightened expectations.
He’ll be counted on to shoulder India’s aspirations for the title, earning him the admiration of fans worldwide. Many will recall his struggles during the Covid-19 era, a point emphasized by Dinesh Karthik in a Cricbuzz interview.
Karthik highlighted the impact of playing without crowds, describing it as disorienting, akin to a domestic match atmosphere. The absence of applause and cheers made it challenging for seasoned international players like Kohli to adjust, potentially contributing to his temporary dip in form.
“He thrives on the energy from the crowd, and players like Hardik Pandya, who feed off that atmosphere, can attest to it. For Virat Kohli, the absence of spectators would have undoubtedly affected him significantly. Playing to an empty stadium feels strange; while TV audiences are there, you don’t hear their applause. It’s a starkly different experience,” Karthik continued.
In IPL 2024, Kohli amassed an impressive 741 runs in 15 matches, propelling RCB to a remarkable comeback and securing a playoff spot. As India gears up to face Ireland in their T20 World Cup opener on Wednesday, Kohli will be eager to reproduce that outstanding form on the international stage.
