Former England Skipper 'Questions' Virat Kohli's Batting Approach

image-lh0e1phjVirat's strike-rate has come under scrutiny [AP Photos]

The 34-year-old batting genius needs no introduction. Virat Kohli is one of the most consistent 3-format specialist batsman the country has ever produced. With centuries across all three formats, Kohli is regarded as one of the most competitive batters who can make a mockery of big scores. 

In the ongoing IPL edition, Kohli is second on the IPL Orange Cap list. Although his strike rate has by far been impressive hovering in the high 140s, the GOAT has come under some criticism for maintaining a subdued approach specially against spin. 

The former England skipper Michael Vaughan stated that the 34-year-old has been sluggish against spin and has not been pursuing boundary options on a proactive basis. While he continues to thwart the pace batteries, the spinner have got the better of him. Contrary to his overall strike rate this season, Virat only averages around 107 against spin. 

Vaughan called for a change in his mindset and stressed on the importance of scoring boundaries in the shortest format of the game.

"I would love him to dance down and wipe one out of the ground. I just think he is that good that he can hit sixes. His mindset in t20 cricket after the six, powerplay is to almost be there till the 18th over. I don't think he is thinking on boundaries enough. He's still got to think boundaries in T20 cricket it’s very important” 

 Besides, Kohli also needs to work on the other aspects of his game. On a number of occasions, Virat has been found guilty of slowing down during middle overs. In a 137-run stand with Faf Du Plessis against Punjab Kings, Kohli scored at dismal strike rate of just around 125. Despite laying a strong foundation, RCB was unable to breach the 200 run mark.

Vaughan reinstated that Kohli needs to step up as the middle order batters aren’t doing enough at the moment, so he needs to through caution to the wind and help RCB get over the line.

“He's got the game, power and timing and say 'Alright, I need a six'. He needs to bring that to the RCB team particularly situations they found themselves yesterday because you can't just rely on cameos from that middle order. You’ve got to continue with the mentality of that first six. I’d like to see him take a couple more risks”

RCB's next fixture is on May 1 where they head to Lucknow to square off against LSG in what appears to a very crucial encounter for both the sides.