(AFP Photo)
As the T20 World Cup 2024 final looms closer, anticipation builds for an intense showdown between two formidable teams. Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif believes this is a prime opportunity for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to shine and secure the coveted trophy.
Speaking in a pre-match discussion on Star Sports, Kaif acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the future of both Indian stalwarts, with Rohit at 37 years old and Kohli at 35. Despite this, Kaif emphasized their recent performances, highlighting Kohli’s exceptional form in recent years and Rohit’s influence in setting the tone for crucial encounters.
Kaif said, “We don’t know whether they will play in a World Cup together in the future. They are going on the right track. Virat Kohli’s form in the past years has been great, even though he hasn’t done well in this tournament. but he has been phenomenal for the past 2-3 years”.
He added, “Rohit Sharma has set the example of how to turn up in the big games. In the quarters and semis, he was really good”.
Kaif believes the upcoming final presents an unparalleled opportunity for the Indian team to reclaim a World Cup trophy against South Africa. Both teams have maintained unbeaten records throughout the tournament, and the victor will make history as the first team to finish undefeated in this competition.
“This is a good opportunity, the last time these two teams met in the ODI World Cup, Kohli scored a century, the form is there, and the experience of having faced Rabada and Nortje so I think that they won’t get many opportunities like this,” Kaif concluded.
Both teams are poised to face off at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. India aims to secure their second T20 World Cup trophy, while South Africa is eager to clinch their inaugural World Cup title.
