Asia Cup 2022: KL Rahul, the vice-captain of India, stated that although the squad wants the previous captain Virat Kohli to perform at his peak, they are not overly concerned with his present form. The conversation leading up to India’s campaign in the Asia Cup, which begins with a match against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, has been dominated by Kohli. Since almost three years ago, Kohli has not recorded an international century.
In addition, given that Kohli’s strike rate has recently declined in the T20 World Cup, it is suggested that the Asia Cup may be his final opportunity to establish his spot in the Indian team before the tournament. Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistani spinner, had made the notable comment that Kohli had turned into a “burden” for India. And it should be replaced by a younger player.
Asia Cup 2022: We Don’t Give Importance”: KL Rahul
“We don’t give much importance to comments. Everyone has their own opinion, but it doesn’t affect a player. A world-class player like Virat will not be affected by what people are saying on the outside.”
Said Rahul in a press conference on Friday
The recent three-match ODI series between India and Zimbabwe was missed by Kohli. As he has done for a few games this year. Rahul, who was forced to leave the matches due to injuries after the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) ended, claimed that Kohli wasn’t out of form.
Asia Cup 2022: Virat Kohli’s Availability
“He has had a little break and is working on his game. I was at home watching him on television when I was injured, and I didn’t feel like he looked out of form or touched. He was batting well. That is something he has always done throughout his career. It was the case when he was captain, and it is the same now. If a player is in that mindset, I am sure good things will happen. Obviously, our main aim is the World Cup.”
Rahul said
Rahul, who hasn’t participated in a T20I this year, will be making his comeback in the game against Pakistan. The India opener spent most of 2022 on the sidelines due to injuries and COVID-19. The Asia Cup will be the ideal competition to test Rahul against the best of the teams as he has his eye on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.
Shane Watson recently endorsed Rahul on the ICC Review, saying that he will make an impact at the World Cup.