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Ambati Rayudu, former Indian cricketer, has commented significantly on Virat Kohli’s recent performances ahead of India’s initial Super Eight match against Afghanistan in Barbados. Kohli has encountered a rough patch in this tournament, managing just 5 runs across three matches thus far.

Despite entering the competition on the back of a highly successful IPL season where he topped the run charts, Kohli has struggled with scores of 1, 4, and 0 in the group stage matches he participated in. As the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 progresses into a crucial phase, India will be counting on their prolific batsman to deliver substantial runs.

Speaking to Star Sports, Ambati Rayudu expressed confidence in Virat Kohli’s ability to shine in crucial moments. Rayudu emphasized that Kohli has a history of performing well in big matches and has shown strong determination in his recent practice sessions. Rayudu backed Kohli to deliver a memorable innings that will leave a lasting impression for future generations.

“He is a big match player. He likes playing on a big stage and has done well for India over the years. He doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone. He just wants to win matches for India, that’s his only mission and he is practicing according to it as well. We are seeing his commitment in the practice,” Rayudu stated.

“It seems like Virat Kohli in the USA and in the Caribbean will be like chalk-and-cheese. Kohli will perform the way that the generations will remember for years to come,” he added.

Former Indian fast bowler Irfan Pathan has echoed Ambati Rayudu’s sentiments, expressing confidence that Virat Kohli will deliver a strong performance in the upcoming match. Pathan also voiced support for Indian captain Rohit Sharma, expecting him to play a significant innings as well.

“Big player, big expectations. His expectations are not only from the fans but he has expectations from himself as well. He wants to perform when India needs him to. Virat Kohli has done this again and again. I am sure both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will perform well. We could witness a once-in-a-lifetime performance from these two men,” Pathan said.

“Despite scoring more than 25000 runs and winning numerous games for India, Kohli has been practicing for the last two days in this heat as he knows there are back-to-back games in the Super Eight stage. His commitment to India has been outstanding,” Pathan mentioned Kohli’s dedication to his practice sessions.

In the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024, India finds themselves grouped with Afghanistan, Australia, and Bangladesh in Group 1. Following their match against Afghanistan on June 20 in Barbados, India will head to Antigua to face Bangladesh on June 22. Their final Super Eight encounter will take place in St. Lucia against Australia on June 24.

India boasts a perfect record against Afghanistan in T20 World Cups, having emerged victorious in all three previous encounters between the two teams.