IPL 2024: Virat Kohli fires back at critics over strike rate concerns after stellar half century
Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli has responded to mounting criticism surrounding his strike rate in IPL 2024, following an impressive half-century against the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Kohli, currently adorned with the coveted Orange Cap, surpassed the 500-run milestone for the season with a commanding 70-run innings on Sunday evening.
Displaying his trademark prowess, the 35-year-old cricketer dispatched six fours and three sixes, boasting a formidable strike rate of 159.09. Kohli's stellar performance with the bat culminated in a resounding 9-wicket victory over the reigning 2022 champions, prompting him to address his detractors with fiery remarks.
"Not really, I think all the people who talk about strike rates and me not playing spin well are the ones who love talking about this stuff. But, for me, it's about winning the game for the team. And there is a reason you have done this for 15 years," Virat Kohli said after his match-winning knock against Gujarat.
You have done this, day in and day out. You have won games for your team. And I am not quite sureâ€æ if you have not been in that situation yourself, to sit and speak about the game from a box.
"I don't think it's the same thing. For me, it's about doing the job for the team. People can sit and talk about their own ideas and assumptions of the game. But those who have done it, day in and day out, they know what they are doing. It's kind of muscle memory for me," he added.
In response to inquiries about his record-breaking feat of scoring 500-plus runs in the IPL for the seventh time, Kohli emphasized his primary focus on securing victories for his team, rather than fixating on individual statistics.
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Throughout the season, Kohli has found himself under intense scrutiny for a few innings where his strike rate fell short of contemporary T20 standards, prompting debates regarding his adaptability to the evolving demands of the format.
