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Xtra Time Web Desk: As the T20 World Cup 2024 heats up, Virat Kohli demonstrated his commitment by attending an optional training session to refine his technique ahead of the crucial Super 8 match against Afghanistan. After being dismissed for a golden duck by USA’s left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, Kohli spent hours in the nets working on his batting.

Kohli's training began with a throwdown session and continued with facing the traveling reserve, Khaleel Ahmed, to address his struggles against left-arm pace. Despite his efforts, Kohli showed visible frustration with his performance during the session.

Like skipper Rohit Sharma and other top-order batsmen, Kohli has faced challenges against left-arm pacers, particularly when the ball swings early in favorable conditions. His recent dismissal to Netravalkar highlighted this vulnerability, as he edged a moving delivery to the wicketkeeper.

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In addition to Khaleel Ahmed, Kohli also faced left-arm chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav. Afghanistan's bowling lineup for the upcoming match includes left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi and left-arm chinaman Noor Ahmad, making this practice crucial for Kohli.

 - Fazalhaq Farooqi: Although Farooqi hasn’t dismissed Kohli yet, he is in excellent form, taking 12 wickets in four games, including a five-wicket haul against Uganda and a four-wicket performance against New Zealand.

- New York Challenges: The drop-in pitches in New York have proven tricky for batters, contributing to Kohli’s modest tally of just five runs from three innings.

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Despite recent struggles, Kohli boasts an impressive record against Afghanistan in T20Is. In four innings, he has amassed 201 runs at an average of 67, including a century and a half-century, with a striking rate of 171.79. This history provides a confidence boost as he prepares to open the innings alongside Rohit Sharma.

Kohli's dedication in the training sessions underscores his determination to overcome recent challenges and perform strongly against Afghanistan. Fans and teammates alike will be looking to Kohli to leverage his extensive preparation and stellar track record against Afghanistan to steer India to victory.