3 tactics Pakistan could have used better to stop Virat Kohli’s masterclass of 82 runs in the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Virat Kohliundoubtedly one of the greatest hitters of his generation, he had already announced his retirement in the T20 International in June following India’s historic victory over South Africa in the final ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

Despite leaving the format, Kohli left the stage on a high note, contributing a crucial 76 runs in the final match, propelling India to their second T20 World Cup title. His performance not only secured the championship but also cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats in the shorter format of the game. However, during his illustrious career, one innings stands out as a defining moment above all others. While Kohli’s performances are legendary, no one can overshadow his unforgettable knock against Pakistan ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022.

Match of the ages: Virat Kohli vs Pakistan

In the high pressure event held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Kohli showed his amazing ability to perform under pressure. After Pakistan posted a competitive total of 159/8, India’s innings suffered a quick setback, with both openers dismissed early, leaving the team reeling at 10/2. The situation took a turn for the worse when India found themselves in a critical position at 31 for 4 in the first seven overs.

However, Kohli’s arrival on the bench brought hope to the Indian camp. Cooperation with Hardik Pandyahe orchestrated a remarkable recovery, forming a crucial 113-run partnership that brought India back into contention. Kohli’s composure and tactical brilliance were on full display as he steered the innings with precision.

Change: Kohli’s brilliance shines through and a world famous six at 18.5

With the game reaching a nail-biting climax, India needed 28 runs from the last eight overs. With amazing changes, Kohli struck Harris Rauf two consecutive sixes, shifting the momentum back in India’s favour. His ability to read the game and perform under intense pressure highlights why he is regarded as one of the best in T20 history.

Kohli’s unbeaten 82 off 53 balls is not just a shutout A stunning victory for India but also emphasized this innings in T20I history books. His performance in that match is often cited as one of the greatest T20 knocks of all time, an example of his incredible talent and mental strength.

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3 tactics Pakistan could use to counter Virat Kohli’s performance of 82 runs in the 2022 T20 World Cup:

1. Aggressive bowling against Kohli

What’s going on: Pakistan’s bowlers were extremely cautious in their approach to Kohli, failing to challenge him effectively. They often bowled very short balls or gave him width, allowing Kohli to settle into his innings and control the score. This lack of aggression meant that he could play his natural game without facing too much pressure, ultimately enabling him to guide India to victory.

What Pakistan Could Do: Pakistan’s bowling team, especially the fast bowlers, could have used a more aggressive strategy by targeting Kohli’s stumps and using a consistent full length. By using bouncers to settle him, they could force him to shoot dangerously. A tight bowling plan suited to Kohli’s strength would have put him under a lot of pressure, which could have changed the outcome of the match.

2. Better field placement and defensive techniques of Kohli

What’s going on: The fielding during the chase was overly defensive, with no closers to put pressure on Virat Kohli. This allowed him to play freely without the threat of immediate dismissal. With no catchers around, he easily found gaps and targeted certain areas of the field. As a result, Kohli settled into his innings, accumulated runs and eventually led India to victory. This lack of aggression in the field settings has had a major impact on Pakistan not being able to contain their scores.

What Pakistan Could Do: The then Pakistan captain, Babar Azamhe could have set the field better to put more pressure on Kohli, especially in those last overs. For example, placing the fielders deep to deliver something, especially on the leg side, could have cut one six. In such high pressure situations, practicing the batter’s strength and making sure the field is solid would help. Additionally, bringing more players into key positions to maintain boundaries, or using a defensive set-up against an in-form Kohli, could increase the pressure on him to take dangerous shots.

3. Saving Haris Rauf’s last over in the 20th over

What’s going on: The Pakistani bowled Rauf in the 19th over, where he bowled well until Kohli’s last two sixes changed the game, especially at 18.5. Mohammad NawazThe left-arm spinner, was tasked with defending 16 runs in the last over, which he could not do effectively under pressure. Nawaz’s over was ruined due to not playing the ball that reached the waist, wide, and other things that were not delivered well.

What Pakistan Could Do: Pakistan could have saved Rauf’s last over in the 20th over instead of bowling him in the 19th over. Rauf, with his experience and pace, would have been a better choice to defend the runs in the last over. A pacer like Rauf could have bowled hard yorkers or used the speed difference to deny Kohli room to hit boundaries. While Nawaz is a good bowler, the pressure of bowling the last over in such a difficult environment contributed to his execution. By changing the bowlers’ roles, with Rauf playing a key role, Pakistan could have increased their chances of closing out the match.

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