Former England spinner Monty Panesar has backed the Indian team to end their ICC World Cup trophy drought and win the coveted T20 World Cup title. Panesar also made a bold prediction regarding Virat Kohli’s performance, stating that Kohli will score a century against South Africa in the final. “India will win the T20 World Cup final, and Virat Kohli will score 100,” Panesar told ANI.
Despite enjoying an impressive run with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024, where he secured the Orange Cap by amassing 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.69, Kohli has struggled for form in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Opening alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, Kohli has managed just 75 runs at an average of 10.71 in seven matches.
Kohli momentarily showed signs of returning to form with a powerful six over mid-wicket off Reece Topley, but was soon dismissed by the English pacer. Despite his recent struggles, both Panesar and Rohit Sharma have expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to shine in the final.
Rohit Sharma, speaking after India’s 68-run win over England in the semi-final, emphasized Kohli’s quality and importance in big games. “He (Kohli) is a quality player. Any player can go through that. We do understand his class, and we do understand his importance in all these big games. Form is never a problem. When you’ve played cricket for 15 years, form is never a problem. He’s looking good, the intent is there, and he’s probably saving for the final. Absolutely (backing Kohli for the final),” said Rohit.
As India prepares to face South Africa in the final, fans and experts alike are eager to see if Kohli can deliver a match-winning performance and help India lift the T20 World Cup trophy.