Skipper Virat Kohli to open for RCB in IPL 2021
Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli opened the batting for the side in the fifth T20I against England and scored a fabulous 80*. His efforts helped India post 224/2 as they won the series decider by 36 runs. Kohli would like to partner Rohit Sharma at the top for India, besides stating that he will open for RCB in the IPL 2021 season.
How Kohli's decision to open helped India in the decider
India managed 60 runs in the first six overs as Rohit Sharma and Kohli scored freely. The Indian captain supported Rohit, who took the route of the aggressor. They stitched a 94-run stand before Kohli added two more vital partnerships. His application at the death helped India accelerate as they posted 224. England were going strong in the chase before their middle order faltered.
Kohli opening the innings could help Team India
With the ICC T20 World Cup to be held in India later this year, India are seeking a balanced side. If Kohli decides to open alongside Rohit, then this will allow India to field six bowling options. India do have batting options with Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya on offer. The return of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will add more dimensions.
What it means for India's other opening options?
If Rohit and Kohli open for Team India, then the likes of Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul will be limited to the bench as of now. Also, India have another option in the form of Ishan Kishan, who can open, besides batting in several other places too. Rahul can come in only if Surya sits out.
Kohli to open for RCB in IPL 2021
Kohli has also decided to open the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming IPL 2021 season. By deciding to come in as an opener in the IPL, this will help the 32-year-old analyze how he shapes up ahead of the T20 World Cup. Kohli has earlier batted at the top for RCB. This time it will be for a longer run.
Padikkal and Kohli could help RCB dominate games
Devdutt Padikkal showed his promise last season for RCB, smashing 473 runs. The youngster scored 218 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2020-21 before piling up the second-highest runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well. Padikkal's rise is a positive factor for RCB and with Kohli opening alongside him, this will not only help the side but Padikkal as well.
Why Kohli wants to open for RCB and Team India
"I am going to open in the IPL as well. Have batted in different positions in the past. But I feel we have a solid middle order now. Will definitely like to partner Rohit at the top. Other guys feel a lot more confident when one of us is still in and is set. Augurs well for the team," he said.
