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With India set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Champions Trophy clash in Dubai on Sunday, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has advised Virat Kohli to relax and not overthink his game.
Kohli, who has been struggling against spin in ODIs, spent extra hours in the nets facing spinners ahead of the big match. His dismissal against Bangladesh’s Rishad Hossain in the tournament-opener raised concerns, with Sunil Gavaskar also highlighting Kohli’s vulnerability against spin.
Manjrekar's Advice to Kohli: Don't Overdo It
"When you're out of form, you tend to overpractice and overthink. Sometimes, you just keep hitting balls in the nets without realizing it’s a mind thing, not just a technical issue," Manjrekar said in a virtual interaction on JioHotstar.
"Kohli is trying his best, but he needs to settle his mind and not push too hard. He should go out there with a relaxed mindset."
Pant vs Rahul: A "Sorry Situation" for the Young Wicketkeeper
Manjrekar also addressed the KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant debate, acknowledging that Rahul's form is keeping Pant out of the playing XI.
"India ticked most boxes against Bangladesh. I don’t see drastic changes unless the pitch demands it. Rahul got some runs, and as long as he performs, Pant will stay out."
"Pant is a rare talent, but it’s a sorry situation for him right now."
India Firm Favourites Against Pakistan, Says Manjrekar
Manjrekar believes India is in top form, while Pakistan needs drastic improvement to challenge them.
"Pakistan’s bowling didn’t impress me. Their spinners didn’t improve, and Shaheen Afridi needs to step up. They need major improvements to compete with India."
"India is looking really strong. If Pakistan doesn’t raise their game significantly, India should win this comfortably."
Praise for Shubman Gill: "He Could Be Player of the Tournament"
Manjrekar showered praise on opener Shubman Gill, who smashed an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls in India’s six-wicket win over Bangladesh.
"Gill is in sublime form. I have already predicted that he will be the Player of the Tournament."
Wahab Riaz Backs Pakistan to Bounce Back
Former Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz remains hopeful that his team can turn things around after their 60-run loss to New Zealand in Karachi.
"Pakistan can bounce back by beating India. It’s the perfect platform to give their best."
"They played well in patches but lacked consistency. They need to handle pressure well and focus on the present moment."
Mohammed Shami’s Bowling Under the Scanner?
Riaz also commented on India’s pace attack, pointing out that Mohammed Shami can be expensive despite his wicket-taking ability.
“Shami is India’s best bowler after Bumrah, but he can leak runs. We have seen this in the past. This is a big stage, and it's a chance for players to step up and become heroes.”
With India in red-hot form and Pakistan under pressure, all eyes will be on this high-voltage clash. Will Kohli regain his touch? Can Pakistan stage a comeback?
We’ll find out on Sunday in Dubai!
