NEW DELHI: Stylish Indian batsman
Virat Kohli
currently leads the
IPL 2024
batting chart with 181 runs in three matches. While his strike rate (141.4) may not be exceptional, a
BCCI
official is optimistic about Kohli's potential to enhance it, given his form and experience.
Before the commencement of IPL 2024, there were speculations that Kohli might face challenges securing a spot in India's squad for the
T20 World Cup
later this year.
Chief selector
Ajit Agarkar
was said to be closely monitoring the former Indian captain's performance.
However, Kohli's consecutive fifties in two out of three matches in the lucrative league have significantly bolstered his prospects for World Cup consideration.
Though RCB has lost two matches, Kohli's form with the bat is currently a topic of discussion among netizens. Some are questioning his strike-rate while some are praising his innings. Memes related to his "not-so-impressive" strike rate are also getting viral.
Speaking to IANS, a BCCI official -- on condition of anonymity -- said that Kohli despite coming from a long break, is "playing well" and added that selectors "don’t go by social media memes" while picking up a team.
"See, it is just the beginning (of the league) and Kohli has started fine. He will improve his strike rate as well in the coming matches. As far as I personally feel, he will make it (to the World Cup squad). Selectors don't go by social media memes. Cricket is played on the field not on social media platforms," the official added.
The T20 World Cup 2024 is scheduled to kickstart from June 1 onwards in West Indies and USA, following the conclusion of IPL 2024 season. Team India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan.
(With IANS inputs)