Virat Kohli has ruled international cricket, especially One Day Internationals (ODIs), and his career has been marked by his relentless pursuit of excellence, not just against any opposition, but specifically against some of the most formidable bowlers the game has seen. His ability to amass runs against these elite bowlers isn’t merely about statistical dominance; it’s a testament to his technical brilliance, mental resilience, and tactical acumen. Here, we delve into Kohli’s encounters with five of these bowling titans, exploring not just the numbers but the narrative of how Kohli has navigated through their challenges, often turning the tide of matches with his bat.
5 Bowlers Virat Kohli Loves To Face In ODI Cricket:
Nathan Lyon (Australia)
Kohli’s 629 runs against Lyon, with an average soaring at 89.85, paint a picture of a batsman who thrives on spin, particularly in conditions that might favor the bowler. This isn’t just about scoring runs; it’s about Kohli’s ability to read the spin, adjust his footwork, and punish anything marginally off-target. His innings against Lyon often showcase a blend of patience and aggression, where he waits for the loose delivery to capitalize, reflecting his strategic approach to batting.
Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Facing Mitchell Starc, known for his pace and swing, Kohli has managed 407 runs at an average of 81.40. This statistic isn’t just about facing fast bowling but mastering it. Kohli’s technique against Starc involves minimal movement, trusting his hand-eye coordination, and often playing late, which disrupts the bowler’s rhythm. His performances against Starc are marked by innings where he not only survives the new ball but also takes the game away from Australia with his scoring rate.
Adil Rashid (England)
Kohli’s 469 runs against Rashid, averaging 52.11, highlight his proficiency against leg-spin, a discipline known for its unpredictability. Kohli’s approach here involves getting to the pitch of the ball, playing with soft hands, and using his feet effectively. His success against Rashid isn’t just in the runs scored but in how he often nullifies the threat of leg-spin, making it look like one of the easier bowling types to face.
Kagiso Rabada (South Africa)
With 406 runs at an average of 50.75 against Rabada, Kohli demonstrates his capacity to handle raw pace and bounce. His technique against Rabada often involves playing the ball late, using the pace of the bowler, and occasionally taking calculated risks to unsettle the bowler’s line and length. Kohli’s innings against Rabada are not just about survival but about setting the platform for big scores.
Imran Tahir (South Africa)
Kohli’s staggering average of 197.0 against Tahir, though specific runs and balls faced aren’t detailed, speaks volumes of his dominance over leg-spin. His method against Tahir involves reading the googly early, using his feet to smother spin, and punishing anything short or wide.
