There has been way too much focus on Virat Kohli and his lack of strike rate: Matthew Hayden

Legendary Australian opener Matthew Hayden has thrown his weight behind India's batting maestro Virat Kohli amidst recent criticism regarding his strike rate during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli, presently leading the Orange Cap race with an impressive tally of 500 runs in ten matches, has not been spared from scrutiny over his performance, particularly concerning his tempo in the middle overs.

However, Kohli's critics were handed a fitting reply as the Royal Challengers Bangalore stalwart showcased his mettle once more with a blistering 70-run knock against the Gujarat Titans. Facing the formidable duo of Afghanistan's spinners, Noor Ahmad and Rashid Khan, Kohli's aggressive approach saw him smashing six fours and three sixes during his unbeaten innings, boasting a strike rate of 159.09 off 44 balls.

Commending Kohli's adaptability and commitment to improvement, Hayden emphasized the necessity for such adjustments to ensure longevity in one's career.

"You have 4 games in the US (T20 World Cup). So, there’s that element of unknown. You need his experience. Sweep shot. Longevity in your career means you have to keep making the adjustments. And I think Virat Kohli did need to make adjustments for RCB Outside the first six, there were some issues around strike rate. Certainly, his strike rate was dropping. But, against the Afghan spin twins today, those sweep shots that was typical of a great champion, to keep learning. That was an option to get off strike, to hit boundaries and to keep momentum in your favour and then, you can say ‘I am doing my job today, you need to do yours’," Hayden said on Star Sports after the match.

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Moreover, Hayden dismissed the disproportionate focus on Kohli's strike rate this season, affirming the Indian skipper's brilliance with a strike rate exceeding 150. As the T20 World Cup looms on the horizon, Kohli's exceptional form bodes well for the Indian team, particularly considering the varied conditions awaiting them, including the potential challenges of green tops and seaming pitches.

"There has been way too much focus on Virat Kohli and his lack of strike rate, in my mind because he has been brilliant. This season, he is striking at 150-plus," Hayden said.

You can’t neglect the fact that you will get green tops now and then, seaming pitches: Hayden

Highlighting the significance of experienced players like Kohli in navigating diverse conditions, Hayden underscored the importance of collective efforts in achieving success.

"And you have got to keep in mind that you can’t neglect the fact that you will get green tops now and then, seaming pitches. On those pitches, if you keep thinking about getting 200, you are going to be out. He is not. He has got the Orange Cap, he has no problem. He needs to have other people to get the job done," concluded the former Australian cricketer.