Australian cricketing legend Aaron Finch has launched a scathing attack on the ongoing debate surrounding Virat Kohli‘s place in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Finch called the discussion “ludicrous” and emphasized Kohli’s undeniable talent and big-match temperament.
Kohli’s Recent Form Fuels Debate
Kohli has played a limited number of T20 internationals since India’s disappointing semi-final exit at the 2022 World Cup. This, coupled with the emergence of young talents and his recent comments about promoting the game, has sparked questions about his selection for the 2024 edition.
However, Kohli silenced some doubters with a match-winning knock for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their opening home game of IPL 2024. This performance echoed his return to form leading up to the 2022 World Cup.
Finch: Kohli’s Big-Match Mentality is Invaluable
Finch expressed his bewilderment at the recurring debate in a discussion on ‘Around the Wicket’. “I can’t understand why every time there is an ICC event coming up in any format, people always talk about Virat Kohli, is he under pressure for his spot? That is the biggest load of rubbish I have ever heard in my life. He is the greatest player that I have seen in white-ball cricket,” Finch declared.
Finch acknowledges the Indian team management’s desire for a more aggressive batting approach with younger players. While it’s early in the IPL season, Kohli’s knock against Punjab Kings displayed glimpses of that intent in the middle overs.
Current Form and Big-Match Experience Key to Selection
Currently holding the Orange Cap in IPL 2024 after just two matches, Kohli seems to be in good touch. Finch believes his recent comments and on-field performance indicate a strong desire to earn his World Cup spot through merit.
For Finch, Kohli’s ability to deliver in high-pressure situations is the defining factor. “It does not matter whether he strikes at 140, and there are guys that strike at 160. If I am picking a team, you are picking a guy, who you know day in day out, gets the job done in the big games. So, it is just ludicrous that we keep having this conversation,” Finch stated firmly.
Kohli will have the chance to further silence his critics when RCB takes on Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday, March 29. His performance in the IPL will undoubtedly influence the selection committee’s decisions regarding the T20 World Cup squad.
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