'If Virat Kohli Returns to no. 3...': Former Pakistan Cricketer Suggests Batting Superstar be Demoted to Restore Balance in India's Playing XI

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has suggested that Virat Kohli starting as an opener might not be the best decision for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.

The Rohit Sharma-led India began their world cup campaign against Ireland in New York earlier this week. Rohit and Kohli opened for India but the latter was dismissed cheaply.

Also Read: IND vs PAK Head-to-Head in T20 World Cups

Kohli managed 1 off five while Rohit hit a half-century before retiring hurt.

“I don’t think the batting order is correct. Virat Kohli can take the pressure at number 3 and finish the match. Jaiswal [Yashasvi] must play for the Indian team.” Akmal said on his YouTube channel Catch And Bat with Kamran Akmal..

He feels that the new batting order is creating a disbalance in India’s playing XI.

Akmal suggested Kohli drop to his usual no. 3 spot in the batting order and it would help India perform even better.

“In my opinion, if Virat Kohli goes back to number 3 it would be really good as the balance would improve even more…the current batting order could land India into trouble because the team depends on a player like him,” Akmal said.

Having bowled out Ireland for 96, India lost Kohli after adding just 7 runs to their total in the chase .

On a tricky pitch, Rohit ensured India didn’t face any difficulty despite the early jolt to complete the chase without much damage.

Rohit registered a 37-ball 52 and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant played a fine unbeaten knock of 36 off 26 deliveries to seal an eight-wicket victory for the former champions.

Akmal was also criticised the : Nassau County International Cricket Stadium pitch. He felt that the pitches were the primary reason behind the lack of good scores in the tournament.

Addressing India’s upcoming fixture against Pakistan, Akmal said, “Because, India versus Pakistan is the biggest match of the tournament, the match should be both high-scoring and entertaining for the fans. If it doesn’t happen, the historic clash’s value will be ruined.”

India will take on Pakistan on Sunday (June 9).

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