Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opener Virat Kohli, has faced substantial scrutiny for his strike rate during the ongoing 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). One notable voice among his critics was legendary Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar.
In the lead-up to RCB's 11th game, against Gujarat Titans, Gavaskar countered Kohli's remarks at the commentators by questioning why players engage with outside criticism if they claim not to listen to it.
Now let’s delve deeper and take a look at who has said what into the matter so far:
Where Did It All Start From?
The saga began when Kohli, despite being the tournament's leading run-scorer, faced relentless criticism for his strike rate. However, after his match-winning knock of 70 runs off 44 balls against the Gujarat Titans on 28 April, Kohli hit back at those scrutinising his approach.
Virat Kohli
Kohli further addressed the issue by taking a swipe at commentators, suggesting that discussing the game from the commentary box isn't comparable to being actively involved on the field. He also emphasised that people can formulate their own opinions and assumptions about the game, but it's not the same as experiencing it firsthand.
Virat Kohli
How Did Sunil Gavaskar React to Kohli’s Remarks?
Gavaskar was among the pundits who had cast doubt on Virat Kohli's batting approach, further pressed the RCB batter by questioning whether he warranted praise for maintaining a strike rate of 118.
Sunil Gavaskar
The 74-year-old went on to question the opener, pondering why players bother responding to external criticism if they claim not to pay heed to it. Gavaskar also asserted that he operates without bias, speaking solely based on his observations rather than any hidden agenda.
Sunil Gavaskar
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