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Effortless! Pietersen Hails Virat Kohli's Masterclass After RCB's Six-wicket Win Over DC

Soumyajit Dutta

Virat Kohli and Kevin Pietersen [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]Virat Kohli and Kevin Pietersen [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

KL Rahul’s aggressive reinvention in the IPL has reignited debates about his role in India’s T20 setup, with Delhi Capitals mentor Kevin Pietersen advocating for him as the ideal No. 4 batter and wicket-keeper for next year’s World Cup. However, what seemed interesting is the DC mentor praised Kohli for his innings building knock in the match.

The IPL’s slower pitches this season have shifted focus from brute power to calculated strokeplay, a challenge Kevin Pietersen believes separates elite batters from the rest. 

Pietersen Admits Kohli, Rahul Mastered Tricky Pitches

After DC’s loss to RCB, where Kohli’s 47-ball 92* showcased his mastery of timing on a sluggish Kotla surface, Pietersen praised the RCB star alongside KL Rahul.

“On wickets like these (the one at Feroz Shah Kotla), you've got to be methodical, you've got to find rhythm. Virat (Kohli) found rhythm this evening. KL got rhythm,” Pietersen said.

KL Rahul, too, has adapted, blending caution with intent to top DC’s run charts. Pietersen defended the tournament’s varied pitches, arguing they test batters’ versatility. 

“Not every game needs to be a 250-run slugfest. Wickets like these reveal who can strategize, adjust, and make tough conditions look effortless. Fans appreciate skill, not just sixes. It’s refreshing to see batters earn their runs.” 

Pietersen emphasized Rahul’s evolution, crediting his willingness to shed traditional techniques for a modern, attacking mindset. “KL has accepted the need to change,” Pietersen said, referencing their discussions on overhauling his approach to suit T20’s demands. “It’s incredibly hard to unlearn methods drilled into you as a youngster, but he’s done it brilliantly,” added the mentor.

Nevertheless, for Rahul, however, the time for validation is now a T20 World Cup spot hinges on proving his refined approach transcends formats.