T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli Will Make A Strong Comeback Against Pakistan, Claims Former India Selector MSK Prasad - Exclusive

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As the excitement reaches its crescendo for the high-intensity clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place on June 9, all eyes are on star India batter Virat Kohli.

The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York will be the battleground for this eagerly anticipated encounter. The entire arena will be transformed into a fortress by US security forces.

India and Pakistan's second group match promises a contest of supremacy and a battle of pride and prestige. With Virat Kohli's well-known ability to thrive under pressure, Pakistani bowlers will be keen to dismiss him early.

Virat Kohli Stats Vs Pakistan In T20 World Cup

The last time these two met in a T20I, Virat Kohli played one of the greatest innings in T20I history. The former skipper's track record in T20Is against Pakistan is formidable, with 488 runs at an average of 81.33, including five half-centuries.

The 35-year-old batter's recent form is equally impressive, having amassed 741 runs in the IPL 2024 at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.69, including one century and five half-centuries. Also Read: IND vs PAK: Pitch Report and Weather Forecast

In an exclusive interview with myKhel, former BCCI selector MSK Prasad spoke about Kohli's form going into the marquee clash. Prasad reckons despite a disappointing start against Ireland, Kohli - who is playing as Rohit Sharma's opening partner - will make a strong comeback.

"See, not only against Pakistan, I think he has got the maximum number of runs and the maximum number of half-centuries in T20 World Cups. So, statistically, I think he is the best when it comes to batting in T20 World Cups," Prasad said.

"And of course, it brings the best out of him when he plays against quality opposition like Pakistan or Australia. I hope that the runs that he has missed in the first game, he will compensate in this game. But having said that, he is not only up against quality bowlers, he is also up against a very inconsistent pitch, which is definitely going to trouble. I am sure he will come back strong," the former India cricketer added further.

Team India defeated Ireland by 8 wickets in their first match, while Pakistan were stunned by the USA. Speaking on which team has a psychological advantage in the match, the former India international commented, "If you talk from psychological aspects, we are in a better position than them."

Prasad noted, "On a tough wicket, though we played against a slightly weaker opposition, the brand of cricket we played despite the tough conditions is brilliant. Pakistan, on the other hand, faced a dent in confidence with their recent defeats against the US."

Discussing the key strengths of both teams, Prasad emphasised the quality of India's bowling attack. "Both teams have fantastic bowling attacks. Our fast bowlers might bowl a bit quicker, but we are more accurate and consistent. Our spin department, with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, is stronger. Overall, our bowling is slightly better, but our batting is significantly superior."

In the first match against Ireland, India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah picked up two wickets in his three overs. However, in that game, he didn’t bowl with the new ball.

When asked whether Bumrah should start with the new ball against Pakistan, the 49-year-old said, "It depends on the game situation and conditions. Rohit and his team will decide based on these factors. I personally would like to see Bumrah bowl early, but strategic decisions are best left to the team management."

India star cricketer Rishabh Pant, made an impressive return to national colours earlier this week, scoring an unbeaten 36 in the side's strong win over Ireland in its opening match of the T20 World Cup.

Pant made his comeback for India after surviving a serious car accident in December 2022. His impressive displays for the Delhi Capitals in this season's Indian Premier League led to his selection for the prestigious international tournament.

About Pant's impact, Prasad highlighted the wicketkeeper-batter's form, and said, "Rishabh's form has been brilliant post his injury. He is playing with aggressive intent and maturity. His recent performances have shown he values his wicket more, which bodes well for the team."

As India and Pakistan gear up for another epic showdown, the stage is set for a thrilling contest. Fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see who emerges victorious in this high-stakes battle.