India batter Virat Kohli showed that he was back in form in the recent Asia Cup 2022 where he scored his maiden T20 century- 122* which is also the highest individual score by an Indian in the format.
Though India didn’t win the Asia Cup 2022, they had a lot of data about what kind of squad they wanted for the T20 World Cup 2022, and when it was announced on Monday, many felt that it was the squad that was perfect for the tournament which will be played in Australia in October-November this year.
Former India cricketer Rohan Gavaskar feels that Kohli opening the batting can become a huge option for the side ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia next month.
"Look, in terms of should Virat be opening, I think it's a great option. You look at his T20 numbers, they are outstanding. He averages about 55-57 and his strike rate is about 160. Those are phenomenal numbers.
His last innings, again unbeaten innings of 122, tells you that he probably relishes opening as well. If memory serves me right, he wanted to open or he said he wanted to open in the Indian T20 league (IPL) in this edition or the last edition, he said that's the spot I want to be. So, it's obviously something that he wants to do. So, it's definitely a big option for the Indian team," said Gavaskar on 'Sports Over The Top' show on Sports18.
If Kohli opens the innings, it might mean that KL Rahul, who hasn’t been in the best of forms might have to drop out of the XI, with Suryakumar Yadav batting at no.3.
"It does open up those options and you're right, SKY (Suryakumar) batting at number 3 it's a pleasing thought. But I have to say if Virat opens, he showed what a tremendous success he is as an opener. It means one of my favorite players will have to make way which is KL Rahul.
Because KL Rahul, I've said this before, he's an absolute class act. So look, it's one of those tricky sort of situations but SKY at number 3, I think that's what we want. His numbers you know and as rightly said, he's one of the best batters in T20,” Gavaskar added.
India's next match in the format will be the first of three T20Is against Australia on September 20 in Mohali.
(IANS inputs)
