Tim Paine, the former captain of Australia, shared his thoughts on India’s prospects in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
India’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 will start with a match against Ireland on June 5 in New York. Tim Paine isn’t fully convinced about India’s chances in the tournament unless Virat Kohli, their star batsman, delivers a stellar performance.
On the ‘Around the Wicket’ podcast, Paine had a chat with his Australian mates Aaron Finch and Michael Clarke. He highlighted how crucial Kohli’s form will be for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Paine believes that without Kohli firing on all cylinders, India might struggle to break their ICC trophy drought. However, Paine did acknowledge some positive signs for India. He mentioned Kohli’s outstanding form in the IPL 2024, where he’s already scored more than 650 runs. Paine drew a parallel to Glenn Maxwell’s role in the Australian team, emphasizing how Maxwell’s explosive batting is pivotal for Australia’s success. Similarly, India’s T20 World Cup aspirations seem to heavily rely on Kohli’s performance.
“I can’t see India winning the World Cup unless Virat Kohli has a really strong World Cup – bit similar to Glenn Maxwell’s form. I know he hasn’t been red-hot as of late but I can’t see Australia winning the World Cup unless Maxwell has a blinder.” – Tim Paine was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.
When talking about where Virat Kohli should bat for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup, the former Australian cricketer remarked:
“I certainly would [have Kohli open]. I think Virat Kohli has earned the right to bat wherever he wants, particularly when he’s in this kind of form. I was the selection or coach in that team, I would want my best player, the best player in red-hot form, I would want him facing as many balls as possible so I’ll try and slot him back at the top,” Paine further added.
Kohli has been on fire in this season’s IPL, smashing 661 runs in 13 matches for RCB. Meanwhile, Maxwell has had a rough time, managing only 36 runs from 8 games with an average of just 5.14.
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