As the highly anticipated clash between India A and Pakistan A nears at the 2023 ACC Men’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, India’s young stars take inspiration from an unforgettable round of their cricket hero, Virat Kohli. The memory of Kohli’s masterclass against Pakistan at the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup has left a lasting impact on players like Riyan Parag, Sai Sudharshan and Abhishek Sharma. Recalling the thrilling encounter, the trio shared their admiration for Kohli’s outstanding performance, which led India to a remarkable victory. Let’s dive into the details of how Kohli’s shot motivates India A ahead of their meeting with Pakistan A.
ICC said and wrote – “Virat Kohli’s SIX vs. Haris Rauf – Arguably the greatest T20 move of all time”. pic.twitter.com/6WFPOCFc7y— Anthukoori Praveen Kumar (@anthukoori) November 15, 2022
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Kohli’s Incredible Sleeves:
In the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, the tension was palpable as India faced an uphill battle. At a critical moment, with the score at 129/4 in the 17th, Virat Kohli took matters into his own hands and showcased his cricketing prowess in a display of remarkable strokes.
In the 17th, Kohli hit Shaheen Shah Afridi for an incredible four in the long area, leaving three defenders helpless to stop the shot. Kohli continued to dominate, negotiating good pace for a single on the next ball, giving Hardik Pandya a shot. Despite some challenges, Kohli kept the momentum going, securing a boundary against Haris Rauf and scoring another single in the 18th.
As the match approached its climax, Kohli’s class shone as they threw two sensational sixes in the 18th, putting India one step closer to target at 144/4. The finale proved to be a nerve-wracking affair. With two runs needed, Kohli’s well-judged shots and a wide ball provided the much-needed advantage. In dramatic fashion, India picked up a thrilling victory as R Ashwin delivered a match-winning boundary on extra coverage, leading the team to a 160/6 aggregate.
.@IamAbhiSharma4, @know_1509 & others talk about it @imVkohlithe historic rounds of #T20WC2022. Supernatural and impressive, they hope to emulate his energy!#Cricket #EmergingAsiaCupOnStar pic.twitter.com/6Pha7CEQWs— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 18, 2023
The impact on India A Stars
Abhishek Sharma expressed his admiration at Kohli’s innings, hailing them as the greatest in the history of T20 cricket. He underscored how the match seemed lost, but Kohli’s determination turned it around, leaving an indelible impression on the young cricketers. “Virat Kohli played the best innings in the history of t20 cricket. As cricketers watching the game we thought the game is over but from there he helped us win the game. It was amazing.”
Riyan Parag recalled watching the game with friends at a cafe, doubting Kohli’s ability to win. However, witnessing Kohli’s intense focus and shooting skill filled him with inspiration. “I still remember we were watching the game in a cafe. I told my friends there was no way Virat would do this. The look on his face, the energy and the way he played comfortably. It was the mood that was joyful on the cake.”
Sai Sudharshan marveled at Kohli’s superhuman shooting, remarking how he instilled the belief that he too could aspire to such greatness. “That shot was like a superhuman shot. I really enjoyed the round, but more than that, I also had the belief that I could play like that too.”
As India A prepares to take on Pakistan A in the 2023 ACC Men’s Emerging Team Asia Cup, memories of Virat Kohli’s iconic rounds continue to fuel the resolve of players like Riyan Parag, Sai Sudharshan and Abhishek Sharma. Kohli’s exceptional display of skill, focus and composure in a high-pressure situation has become an inspiration to young talent, reminding them that anything is possible on the cricket pitch.