Legendary former Australian batsman Matthew Hayden offered his thoughts on Virat Kohli’s chasing extravaganza. When Kohli was chasing the target, he examined his approach to his innings. In the IPL, Hayden again underlined the significance of net run rate.
In addition, Hayden discussed his impressions of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) consistent performance. It was the ideal target for the Indian batting mainstay to pursue, he claimed. Kohli was able to design his innings in accordance with the asking rate because it was within his reach.
The ideal total for Virat Kohli to pursue was this one. He does best on such a surface if you find yourself in a situation that is par or just above par. His partner, Phil Salt, must contribute to increasing the strike and scoring rates. With the Kolkata Knight Riders, Kohli has continued precisely where he left off, but tonight represents “Virat Kohli 2.0,” as he has done for the previous two seasons.
He did a lot of damage, particularly in middle overs. He has no trouble keeping up with pace on the powerplay, but today he kept his strike rate above 170 in the middle overs, which was exactly what was required,” Hayden exclusively told JioHotstar. As we always say, net run rate is highly important, and this year is no exception.
Remember last season, when RCB needed to make a late comeback? Net run rate was a key factor.
Likewise, it will be crucial this season. As the new captain, Rajat Patidar won with a decisive and significant victory. It certainly helps to have Virat Kohli in excellent form. With Josh Hazlewood doing what he does well and Krunal Pandya being a useful asset through the middle, their bowling lineup appeared to be sound. There’s something unique about this unit this year, he continued, “when I look at RCB’s setup for the first time in a long time.”
On Krunal’s role and the CSK vs. MI match, Hayden
Matthew Hayden additionally considered Krunal Pandya’s performance and influence during the opening match of the 2025 Indian Premier League. In the match on Saturday, he praised Pandya’s expertise and his handling of the pressure. The former Australian batting legend also discussed his thoughts on the next “El Clasico” between the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
“He was a really astute bowler and a very wise pick. The way he changed tempo and attacked the stumps was a great setup. Experience is invaluable under duress, and he demonstrated serious character. “RCB looked like they were in serious trouble at one point, but they had a fantastic comeback,” the cricket expert said of Pandya’s influence.
It’s an amazing fixture. Together, these two sides have a rich history. CSK has also dominated the game at Chepauk, much like Mumbai did at Wankhede. CSK’s spin unit, which is among the finest in the league, will be vital to a victory there, which would be huge. It’s wonderful that their long-time friend Ravichandran Ashwin is back. When I expect a wicket to give turn, he can be crucial. The Mumbai Indians playing in the season opener at Chepauk is just fitting,” Hayden said in reference to the forthcoming third IPL 2025 match.
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