IND vs SA: Why is Virat Kohli playing like Babar Azam? Netizens question batter's slow innings against South Africa

In the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 match at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma provided a strong start for his team against South Africa. However, the Proteas made a comeback by dismissing the captain and his opening partner, Shubman Gill. Subsequently, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer formed a partnership, both reaching their respective half-centuries. While Iyer managed to get a start after reaching 50, Kohli appeared to struggle with acceleration.

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By the 43rd over, Kohli had scored just 78 runs off 102 balls, leaving some fans perplexed about his seemingly slow innings. Some even took to social media to question whether he was emulating Babar Azam's style of play or if he was overly eager to reach his century. However, there were others who defended the Indian batsman, suggesting that the pitch conditions were not conducive to easy acceleration.

Opting to bat first, Rohit played a brisk 24-ball innings, amassing 40 runs and sharing a 62-run opening partnership with Shubman Gill (23). However, the Proteas fought back, leaving India at 105 for two after 15 overs. Iyer played a valuable innings, scoring 77 runs off 87 balls, while KL Rahul managed just 8 runs from 17 balls.

With 253 runs on the board by the 43rd over, Indian fans hoped for a competitive total, given South Africa's strong batting lineup.