Virat Kohli has been garnering criticism for his strike rate in IPL 2024. With the ongoing edition being a high-scoring affair, the batters have been expected to keep surmounting strike rates while batting.
Virat Kohli has scored 500 runs in 10 matches so far in IPL 2024, striking at over 140. But with teams scoring and chasing 260+ totals, the pundits have been slamming the Indian talisman over his strike rate.
Kohli's former RCB team-mate and close friend AB de Villiers, who was Virat's partner-in-crime on the pitch, has defended him off it, yet again! ABD has been very vocal in Kohli's defence against his critics, throughout the season.
The former RCB player expressed his views on his YouTube channel, as he spoke in favour of his former teammate, and friend.
BET NOW: Exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses when you bet on IPL action
What did AB De Villiers say in defence of Virat Kohli against his critics?
AB De Villiers spoke at length about the undeserving criticism being thrown at Virat Kohli. De Villiers stated how Virat plays a certain role for RCB, and him being fed up of the 'data-driven pundits', slamming Kohli for his low strike rates.
Virat Kohli has been catching criticism for his strike-rate. It has been going on for way too long now, and I am fed up with it now. I am frustrated to say the least. This guy is one of the best players to ever play the game, De Villiers said on his YouTube channel.
He's incredible in the IPL. He plays a certain role for RCB. I am fed up of 'data-driven pundits' who keep criticising this man, when you do not have the knowledge of the game. His strike rate this season, is better than the record-breaking season in 2016, De Villiers slammed pundits for criticising Kohli over strike-rates.
MORE: Has MS Dhoni been dismissed by any bowler in IPL 2024?
He added,
Virat has been doing it day-in day-out, and he's won games. He has got a certain formula, and it is upto the team, coach, and captain to strategise around that.
The former Protean skipper confessed his preference for Virat Kohli batting at number three, rather than opening the innings alongside Faf Du Plessis. He said,
Virat is best at number three. I would bat him there. He loves opening the batting and his record speaks for itself. But Will Jacks opening with Faf (Du Plessis) will give them the best opportunity to get a flying start. Virat has got the perfect opportunity to play the cement role.
AB De Villiers on the talks about Virat Kohli's Strike Rate.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 1, 2024
- The AB VK bond. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/hBcr8LGzB7
What next for RCB and Virat Kohli?
Virat Kohli and RCB have been on a winning streak, having won consecutive matches for the first time in IPL 2024. RCB's next test comes in the form of Gujarat Titans. The Bengaluru-based outfit will play at home soil, when they host the two-time IPL finalists on Saturday, May 3, 2024.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Learn more >