T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli Will Make A Strong Comeback Against Pakistan, Claims Former India Selector MSK Prasad

As anticipation builds for the high-stakes clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, all eyes are on star India batter Virat Kohli. The match is scheduled for June 9 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, which will be heavily secured by US forces.

The second group match between India and Pakistan promises a contest of supremacy and a battle of pride. With Kohli's well-known ability to thrive under pressure, Pakistani bowlers will aim to dismiss him early.

In their last T20I meeting, Kohli played one of the greatest innings in T20I history. His track record against Pakistan in T20Is is formidable, with 488 runs at an average of 81.33, including five half-centuries.

The 35-year-old batter's recent form is equally impressive, having amassed 741 runs in the IPL 2024 at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.69, including one century and five half-centuries.

In an exclusive interview with myKhel, former BCCI selector MSK Prasad discussed Kohli's form going into the marquee clash. Prasad believes that despite a disappointing start against Ireland, Kohli will make a strong comeback.

"See, not only against Pakistan, I think he has got the maximum number of runs and the maximum number of half-centuries in T20 World Cups. So, statistically, I think he is the best when it comes to batting in T20 World Cups," Prasad said.

"And of course, it brings the best out of him when he plays against quality opposition like Pakistan or Australia. I hope that the runs that he has missed in the first game, he will compensate in this game. But having said that, he is not only up against quality bowlers, he is also up against a very inconsistent pitch, which is definitely going to trouble. I am sure he will come back strong," Prasad added.

Team India defeated Ireland by eight wickets in their first match, while Pakistan were stunned by the USA. Speaking on which team has a psychological advantage in the match, Prasad commented, "If you talk from psychological aspects, we are in a better position than them."

Prasad noted, "On a tough wicket, though we played against a slightly weaker opposition, the brand of cricket we played despite the tough conditions is brilliant. Pakistan, on the other hand, faced a dent in confidence with their recent defeats against the US."

Discussing the key strengths of both teams, Prasad emphasised India's bowling attack. "Both teams have fantastic bowling attacks. Our fast bowlers might bowl a bit quicker, but we are more accurate and consistent. Our spin department, with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, is stronger. Overall, our bowling is slightly better, but our batting is significantly superior."

In the first match against Ireland, India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah picked up two wickets in his three overs. However, he didn't bowl with the new ball in that game.

When asked whether Bumrah should start with the new ball against Pakistan, Prasad said, "It depends on the game situation and conditions. Rohit and his team will decide based on these factors. I personally would like to see Bumrah bowl early, but strategic decisions are best left to the team management."

India star cricketer Rishabh Pant made an impressive return to national colours earlier this week, scoring an unbeaten 36 in India's strong win over Ireland in its opening match of the T20 World Cup.

Pant made his comeback for India after surviving a serious car accident in December 2022. His impressive displays for the Delhi Capitals in this season's Indian Premier League led to his selection for this prestigious international tournament.

About Pant's impact, Prasad highlighted the wicketkeeper-batter's form and said, "Rishabh's form has been brilliant post his injury. He is playing with aggressive intent and maturity. His recent performances have shown he values his wicket more, which bodes well for the team."

As India and Pakistan gear up for another epic showdown, fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see who emerges victorious in this high-stakes battle.