NEW DELHI: Former India international cricketer Mohammad Kaif heaped praise on Virat Kohli after the RCB star crossed 300 IPL sixes, highlighting how his growth as a T20 batter reflects adaptability rather than natural power-hitting. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kaif wrote, “Virat Kohli taking his IPL 6s tally to 303 is an incredible achievement. Imagine Gayle has 360 and Rohit 310. Kohli isn’t a natural six-hitter but he worked on his game to meet the demand of the modern game. His greatness is his adaptability and showing courage to come out of his comfort zone.”Kohli once again showed that evolution in action during RCB’s five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans, where he scored a fluent 81 while Devdutt Padikkal smashed 55.
Their 115-run stand ensured a smooth chase of 206, completed in 18.5 overs. Kohli later credited his partner, saying, “This is the second time Dev (Devdutt Padikkal) has come and done this. You never see him slogging the ball yet he’s playing so freely. His innings was the difference in the first half and then I was trying to stay in the game so he won’t feel the pressure. Dev was going great guns and the idea was to keep the pressure on the bowlers. There was intent, clarity and feedback from the other and and we didn’t have any doubts in the partnership and that’s what worked for us.“He also underlined RCB’s batting strength: “We have a tremendous batting lineup. If you look at the talent on display, we have guys who can play good cricket shots, you have the power of Tim David and Shepherd and then you have the smarts of Krunal. So the message is simple – you see a ball to hit, go for it because you have the depth. “Firstly, we were quite happy we were able to play five games here and the fans get to see the team again. Special place to play cricket and hopefully we’ll be able to come back and play here again later in the season.”Earlier, Sai Sudharsan’s composed century powered GT to 205/3, but a slowdown in the death overs kept the target within reach, allowing Kohli and Padikkal to take control and seal another convincing win for RCB.
