Cricket

IPL 2023: Irfan Pathan impressed with Virat Kohli’s captaincy against Punjab Kings

Virat Kohli’s captaincy tactics were praised by former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan during the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) win over the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2023 on April 20 in Mohali. The win was RCB’s third in the ongoing IPL.

Kohli stepped up as captain after regular skipper Faf du Plessis was unable to play due to a rib injury. Pathan lauded Kohli for his fresh energy and excellent decision-making, particularly in changing bowlers on a regular basis. Pathan specifically mentioned Kohli’s choice to bring in Wanindu Hasaranga in the third over as a “masterstroke” as he knew PBKS’ Matthew Short was challenged by spin. Hasaranga also removed Shahrukh Khan and played a crucial role in RCB’s win.

“When Siraj dismissed Livingstone, he was brought from the other end, and then the fielding (Siraj’s run out of Harpreet Singh). It gets rubbed off when you bring in that much energy. From Virat Kohli’s energy, it seemed as though he had done the run-out,” Pathan said during a post-match discussion on Star Sports.

RCB scored a challenging 175-run target after being invited to bat first, with Kohli and Du Pessis scoring half-centuries. The bowlers then took early wickets as PBKs were bowled out for 150 with 10 balls remaining. Mohammed Siraj took four key wickets and was instrumental in RCB’s victory, earning him the Player of the Match award. Meanwhile, Hasaranga took two wickets, while Wayne Parnell and Harshal Patel picked one each.

The win puts RCB in second place in the IPL 2023 standings with three victories in four matches. The team looks strong with Kohli’s leadership and the excellent performances of their players, including Du Pessis, Siraj, and Hasaranga.

Kohli’s captaincy has been praised by many in the past, and it seems he continues to bring fresh energy and fantastic decision-making to the game. As RCB looks to secure a spot in the playoffs and potentially win their first IPL title, Kohli’s leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their success.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

DC-W vs MI-W WPL 2025 Final: Mumbai favourites with momentum on their side as DC-W look to succeed in third consecutive final

The Women’s Premier League 2025 final is here and these are two best teams in… Read More

March 14, 2025

Lakshya Sen Storms Into All England Open Quarter-Finals; Chirag-Satwik Withdraw Due to Injury

Indian badminton star Lakshya Sen continued his impressive run at the All England Open 2025,… Read More

March 14, 2025

Axar Patel Named Delhi Capitals Captain for IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals (DC) have appointed all-rounder Axar Patel as their new captain for the 2025… Read More

March 14, 2025

Kerala Blasters End Disappointing ISL Season, Shift Focus to Super Cup 2025

Kerala Blasters FC concluded their 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign on a frustrating note,… Read More

March 14, 2025

TG Purushothaman says conversion is the problem after draw against Hyderabad FC

Kerala Blasters FC interim head coach TG Purushothaman shared his disappointment after a 1-1 draw… Read More

March 14, 2025

Rafael Nadal says women should earn more if they generate more

Rafael Nadal believes women should earn more if they generate more profit. Nadal said men… Read More

March 14, 2025