Media Report: Virat Kohli set to open against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2024 on Sunday, reveals latest update

In a bold move by head coach Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli was given the opportunity to open the innings for India in their group match against Ireland in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. However, the decision did not yield the desired results as Kohli was dismissed for just 1 run off 5 balls. Despite this setback, a recent report by the Hindustan Times suggests that Kohli will once again open for India, this time against archrivals Pakistan on June 9.

The Indian team management is reportedly keen on sticking to the Kohli-Rohit Sharma opening combination for the crucial match against Pakistan at Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York. The match against Pakistan is a must-win game for the team, especially after Pakistan’s loss to the USA in a Super Over.

Kohli’s experience as an opener in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore could prove to be beneficial for Team India. His performance in the IPL 2024 season, where he scored 741 runs at a strike rate of 154 and won the Orange Cap, showcases his ability to excel in the opening position.

By having Kohli open the innings, Team India aims to address various issues in the middle order, allowing players like Shivam Dube to slot in and giving Rishabh Pant a better batting position. Pant, who has been in good form in the T20 World Cup 2024, is expected to continue batting at No.3 as per the batting coach Vikram Rathour. With the stage set for a high-stakes encounter against Pakistan, all eyes will be on Kohli as he takes on the challenge of opening the innings once again.