Virat Kohli's Risk-Free Approach: Insights from Aaron Finch

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli possesses the ability to score at a high strike rate akin to young T20 talents. However, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team structure necessitates a cautious approach for him to aim for a prolific season, according to former Australia captain Aaron Finch.

Finch, who led Australia to a T20 World Cup win in 2021, believes that high-risk cricket, like Rohit Sharma's style, can affect consistency.

Kohli s Risk-Free Strategy for RCB Discussed by Finch

Finch noted that while Rohit Sharma's IPL strike rate is similar to Kohli's, Rohit took more risks towards the end of his T20I career. This approach brought significant gains at the top of the order. However, Finch highlighted the quality of players in the Mumbai Indians line-up, who could maintain momentum even if things went awry.

RCB's Strategy and Kohli's Role

Kohli achieved a strike rate of nearly 140 in 2023 after some lacklustre seasons. His best IPL performance was in 2024 with 741 runs at a strike rate of 154.70. Finch questioned whether Kohli should alter his game for RCB's benefit, given their potentially weaker bowling line-up compared to others.

Finch emphasised that Kohli can increase his strike rate if needed but warned that it would involve higher risk and reduced consistency. "Do you want 700 or 800 runs or are you happy with 400?" Finch asked. He suggested minor tempo adjustments but advised building the team around Kohli's consistent run-scoring ability.

Powerplay Dynamics and Team Composition

The game has evolved significantly in recent seasons, especially regarding Powerplay strategies. Finch acknowledged this shift but stressed that each batter has unique strengths. "It's unrealistic to expect seven batters to strike at 200 from ball one," he said, noting that such an approach could lead to losses if unsuccessful.

Finch explained that while the game has reached new heights recently, foundational elements remain crucial. Teams still need players who can bat deep into innings while maintaining a strong strike rate. He pointed out that Rohit's aggressive style worked because he had reliable teammates like Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav around him.

Kohli's Consistency and Team Dynamics

Rohit could take risks for India because Kohli provided stability at number three. Finch remarked, "When Rohit's made that conscious decision, he's had Virat coming in behind him." This allowed Rohit to play freely, knowing Kohli could rectify any mistakes.

Finch believes Kohli batting at a strike rate of 150 would be ideal. "Maybe if his strike rate goes from 140 to 150, he can absolutely do that," Finch stated confidently. He highlighted instances where Kohli had to rescue RCB when others faltered around him.

Finch reiterated his preference for consistent runs from a top-three player like Kohli. This consistency provides other batters with the freedom to be more aggressive, enhancing the team's overall performance.