Aakash Chopra Floats Virat Kohli at No. 3 for RCB, Hints at World Cup Strategy

Aakash Chopra Floats Virat Kohli at No. 3 for RCB, Hints at World Cup Strategy

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has ignited discussions about Virat Kohli’s batting position in the upcoming IPL 2024 season. In a recent analysis, Chopra suggested that RCB should consider deploying Kohli at the crucial No. 3 spot, hinting that this move could also benefit India’s strategy for the upcoming World Cup.

In the recent past, Kohli has been opening the batting for RCB, delivering impressive performances in IPL 2023 with 639 runs, including 2 centuries. His average stands at 43.51, and he boasts a strike rate of 135.45 as an opener in the IPL, having scored 3611 runs in 98 matches. However, Kohli’s numbers at No. 3 are also commendable. As the all-time run-getter in the IPL, he has scored 2815 runs at an average of 35.19 and a strike rate of 123.79 in that position.

Kohli’s expected role as No. 3 in the T20 World Cup for India further fuels the discussion. During a T20I series against Afghanistan earlier this year, Kohli returned to the T20I set-up after the 2022 T20 World Cup. His intent was clear as he silenced critics of his strike rate with a 16-ball 29 in an Indore T20I.

Aakash Chopra raises the intriguing question: Could Kohli open for RCB in IPL 2024? He suggests that Cameron Green might be an option to open the batting alongside Faf du Plessis, who aims to bounce back after a mixed run with Johannesburg Super Kings in SA20 2024. RCB’s batting unit, bolstered by the addition of Cameron Green, needs to find the right balance and strategy for the upcoming season.

Furthermore, Chopra argues that a successful stint at No. 3 in the IPL would provide valuable data and confidence for Kohli ahead of the World Cup. The marquee tournament serves as a crucial preparation ground for the mega-event, and a strong showing at the top of the order for RCB could translate into a similar role for India at the World Cup.

Chopra’s suggestion has sparked debate among cricket fans and analysts. Some believe that a change in position could be exactly what Kohli needs to rediscover his form. Others argue that RCB should stick with their current batting order, which has been successful in the past.

The IPL 2024 season will be keenly watched to see if RCB heeds Chopra’s advice and promotes Kohli to No. 3. The outcome could not only impact RCB’s performance but also provide valuable insights into India’s World Cup strategy.

RCB’s Top Order Conundrum: Will Virat Kohli Embrace the Change?

Aakash Chopra’s proposal has thrown the spotlight on RCB’s top order conundrum. The team currently boasts a formidable opening pair in (insert current openers), who have shouldered the responsibility in recent seasons. Promoting Kohli to No. 3 would necessitate a shuffle in the batting order, potentially pushing one of the openers down the order.

This begs the question: would the openers be comfortable with the switch? Would a new batting position disrupt their rhythm? There’s also the question of how the middle order would adapt to Kohli’s presence at No. 3. Would it disrupt the flow of the innings, or would his anchoring role solidify the middle order’s performance?

The RCB management faces a critical decision. Sticking with the tried-and-tested combination offers stability, but it might not address Kohli’s struggles. Embracing Chopra’s suggestion holds the potential for a strategic advantage, but it comes with the risk of disrupting a well-oiled machine.

Virat Kohli’s Form: A Cause for Concern?

Aakash Chopra’s suggestion stems from a growing concern surrounding Virat Kohli’s form. The former captain’s batting has lacked its usual flair in recent outings. While he possesses exceptional talent, the runs haven’t flowed as freely as they once did.

A change in position could prove to be a mental refresh for Kohli. The No. 3 spot offers more time to settle in and build the innings, potentially alleviating the pressure of scoring quick runs at the start. This could allow him to play his natural game and rediscover his scoring touch.

The upcoming IPL season will be a crucial test for Kohli. If he thrives at No. 3 for RCB, it would not only silence doubts about his form but also serve as a springboard for a successful World Cup campaign. However, if the experiment proves unsuccessful, RCB might be forced to revert to their original batting order, leaving Kohli’s struggles and India’s World Cup strategy back in the spotlight.

Read This Also: Royal Challengers Bangalore Retained, Released and Traded Players Ahead of IPL 2024 Auction