Australian batsman Steve Smith dismissed concerns about Virat Kohli’s strike rate for RCB, emphasizing Kohli’s ability to adapt to the game’s demands. Despite Kohli’s impressive individual performance, scoring 203 runs in 4 matches and leading the run charts with the Orange Cap, RCB’s overall performance has been lackluster, with just one win in four matches.
Speaking to PTI, Smith commended Kohli for his strategic approach to the game, stating that Kohli assesses the conditions and situation effectively before adjusting his gameplay accordingly. Smith’s comments came in response to criticism of Kohli’s 83-run innings off 59 balls against KKR.
“Virat is an exceptional player,” Smith remarked. “He excels in reading the conditions and adapting his game accordingly. Whether it requires aggressive stroke play or building partnerships, Kohli delivers as per the team’s needs. Not every ground demands a score of 180; sometimes 150-160 is sufficient.”
Smith further expressed understanding towards Kohli’s situation, highlighting the added pressure on him due to the team’s collective failures this season. Apart from Kohli, none of the other batters have made significant contributions, with Dinesh Karthik being the closest with 90 runs, followed by Anuj Rawat with 73 runs.
Smith acknowledged the underperformance of star players like Faf du Plessis, Cameron Green, and Glenn Maxwell, emphasizing the need for them to step up and alleviate the pressure on Kohli.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is set to be in action today, i.e. 6th April against the Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The match will be played from the 7:30 P.M Indian Standard Time (IST). Rajasthan have won 3 out of their first 3 matches and remain undefeated in the tournament.
