NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has underscored the pivotal role of Virat Kohli's form in determining Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) journey to the IPL playoffs this season.
Kaif's remarks come amid Kohli's recent absence from international cricket and his imminent return to the IPL fold. Kohli, who last featured for India in January and opted out of the Test series against England due to personal reasons, is expected to rejoin RCB ahead of their season opener against the Chennai Super Kings on March 22.
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Speaking on the Star Sports show "Game Plan," Kaif delved into Kohli's exceptional form over the past couple of years and emphasized his ability to make significant contributions with the bat.
"Virat Kohli has been playing amazing cricket for the last 1-2 years; he has been in good form... He has been in amazing form since then, and when a player like Virat Kohli is in form, he knows how to make runs in every match," Kaif remarked.
Highlighting Kohli's stellar IPL record, Kaif pointed out the stylish batter's consistent performances in the tournament, including his impressive tally of 639 runs at an average of 53.25 in the 2023 season.
1/10:Teams to have never won IPL despite playing all 16 seasons
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2/10:Royal Challengers Bangalore
<p>Throughout IPL history, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have relentlessly pursued their maiden title, facing heartbreak despite immense talent and determination.</p>Getty Images
3/10:RCB's Quest for a Balanced Squad
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5/10:Punjab Kings
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6/10:Reasons Behind Failure
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7/10:Bright future ahead
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8/10:Delhi Capitals
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9/10:Reasons for Not Winning
<p>Delhi Capitals' struggles include the inability to establish a reliable opening pair, past captaincy challenges, and a shortage of quality all-rounders impacting their ability to strike the right balance in the team.</p>Getty Images
10/10:Potential for IPL Title
<p>All three teams, RCB, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals, have the potential to claim an IPL title, provided they address and overcome the challenges that have hindered their success in the past.</p>Getty Images"One special thing about Virat Kohli is that every time he comes back from a break, he plays really well... Virat Kohli's form will decide RCB's place in the playoffs," Kaif stressed.
While acknowledging the presence of other key players like Green and Maxwell in the RCB lineup, Kaif emphasized the indispensable role of Kohli's form in securing the team's spot in the playoffs.
"It's important that Virat Kohli is in form with Maxwell and Green for RCB to qualify for the playoffs," Kaif added, expressing confidence in Kohli's ability to stage a formidable comeback after the break.
(With inputs from IANS)
