Former BCCI president and current Director of Cricket for Delhi Capitals, Sourav Ganguly, has emphasized the need for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to adopt an attacking mindset from the outset during the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies and USA, slated to commence in June.
Ganguly highlighted the impressive strike rates displayed by several young players in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading to record team totals. He referenced Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach during the 50-overs World Cup, asserting that such aggressive batting from the onset could significantly pressure the opposition and provide leeway for the lower order.
Expressing confidence in the capabilities of both Rohit and Virat, Ganguly emphasized the importance of playing fearlessly in T20 cricket. He urged the duo to seize control of their innings by attacking the bowlers, emphasizing that while wickets may fall, an assertive approach could set the tone for a commanding performance.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli showcased stellar performances during the Cricket World Cup last year in India. Virat amassed 765 runs in 11 matches at an astonishing average of 95.62, including three centuries and six fifties, while Rohit accumulated 597 runs at an average of 54.27 with a strike rate exceeding 125.
Their last T20I appearance for India was against Afghanistan in January, where Rohit notched a rapid 121*, complemented by Virat’s brisk 29* off 16 balls. These matches followed their participation in the T20 WC 2022 semifinals against England, over a year ago, which ended in a 10-wicket defeat.
Both players have been in fine form during the ongoing IPL. Virat has amassed 379 runs in eight matches at an average of 63.16 and a strike rate of 150.39, including a century and two fifties, making him the top run-scorer in IPL 2024 so far. Rohit, on the other hand, has scored 303 runs at an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 162.90, with a century, placing him fourth on the list of highest run-getters in the tournament.