Amid the intense competition of the T20 World Cup 2024, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his thoughts on the comparisons between India’s Virat Kohli and Pakistan’s Babar Azam. According to Harbhajan, Kohli is not likely to be preoccupied with Babar’s T20I records.
Source : I
Kohli’s Focus on Performance
During a conversation on Star Sports, Harbhajan emphasized that Kohli is more focused on improving his own game and contributing to India’s success rather than tracking Babar Azam’s achievements in T20 cricket. “I don’t think Virat will be checking Babar’s T20I records. Virat has always been about improving his own game and contributing to India’s victories,” Harbhajan said.
Source:- BBC news
Kohli is currently trailing Babar by 71 runs in the all-time T20I batting charts, with Babar leading at 4113 runs in 122 matches. Despite this, Harbhajan believes Kohli’s primary concern is his form and the team’s performance in the tournament. Kohli has struggled in the group stages, managing just five runs across two matches, including his lowest score against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history.
Comparisons and Expectations
Babar Azam recently surpassed Kohli’s tally for most runs in men’s T20Is, but Harbhajan insists that Kohli is more focused on getting back into form than reclaiming the top spot. “I am not sure if he is checking all these records that Babar has gone ahead of him. But one thing is sure: he must be itching to get big runs under his belt before the next round,” Harbhajan added.
Kohli’s performance in the IPL 2024, where he won the Orange Cap with 741 runs, indicates his potential to return to form. Harbhajan believes Kohli’s focus will be on playing the first 10 balls well, as his confidence usually builds from there.
Kohli’s Legacy and Drive
Former fast bowler Laxmipathy Balaji also echoed Harbhajan’s sentiments, stating that Kohli does not need to prove anything to anyone and that his hunger for runs will drive him. “Virat is a modern-day great. He will be wanting to make a mark on this platform,” Balaji said.
Kohli’s ability to bounce back and his competitive nature are well-known, and both Harbhajan and Balaji believe that he will rise to the occasion as the tournament progresses. Despite the slow start, Kohli’s focus remains on the larger goal of contributing to India’s success in the World Cup.
Upcoming Matches
India, currently competing in Group A, is set to face co-hosts USA in their next match. With a strong lineup and Kohli’s determination, the team is hopeful for a turnaround in their fortunes. As the T20 World Cup unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching Kohli’s performance, expecting him to reclaim his dominant form and lead India to further victories.
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