Virat Kohli poised for comeback in T20 World Cup final, Says Panesar

• Virat Kohli is struggling in T20 World Cup.
• Kohli’s poor form contrasts with his previous performances.
• Rohit Sharma expresses confidence in Kohli’s ability.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup, India’s seasoned batsman Virat Kohli has been struggling to find his rhythm, accumulating just 75 runs across seven innings.

At 35 years of age, Kohli managed a mere nine runs in the semi-final clash with England, succumbing to Reece Topley’s bowling. This marked his fifth instance of not reaching double figures in the tournament.

Kohli’s slump is particularly notable as he previously led the scoring charts in the 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cups. With India on the cusp of clinching their first ICC trophy since 2013, expectations are high for the veteran to step up in the final match.

Monty Panesar, the ex-England leg-spinner, has made a bold forecast for Kohli’s performance in the final against South Africa in Barbados on Saturday.

“India will win the T20 World Cup final, and Virat Kohli will score 100,” Panesar was quoted by The Times of India.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma remains unfazed by Kohli’s current form.

“He (Kohli) is a quality player. Any player can go through that. We do understand his class, and we do understand his importance in all these big games. Form is never a problem. When you’ve played cricket for 15 years, form is never a problem. He’s looking good, the intent is there, and he’s probably saving for the final. Absolutely (backing Kohli for the final),” Rohit commented following the semifinal win.

South Africa, meanwhile, has reached their inaugural T20 World Cup final after defeating Afghanistan decisively in Trinidad and Tobago.

In another match, Rohit Sharma’s team avenged their previous World Cup loss by overcoming England with a 68-run victory in Guyana.