BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar speaks up on Virat Kohli's T20 World Cup selection

The impending selection of India's squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked many discussions and debates, with one name at the center of it all, Virat Kohli. Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, has now opened up on Kohli's form and fitness, providing a fresh perspective on the former captain's chances of making the cut.

The veteran cricketer has been a consistent performer for the national side, having not missed a single ICC tournament since his debut. However, recent reports suggested that the star batter was at risk of missing the 2024 T20 World Cup. As the BCCI prepares to finalise the squad in the coming weeks, Agarkar's comments have clarified Kohli's position.

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He is one of those guys who has set a benchmark: Ajit Agarkar

Agarkar praised Kohli's commitment to fitness, a trait that has undoubtedly contributed to the longevity of his illustrious career. "Look at Virat. He is one of those guys who has set a benchmark. 10-15 years into his career, he has only gotten fitter. And you can see the results," Agarkar said during an interview with the SportifywithPRG podcast.

The BCCI selector also emphasized Kohli's example's positive impact on the overall development of Indian cricket, particularly at the grassroots level. "If someone like him sets an example, puts forward certain things than you need, certain fitness levels you need, gradually it has progressed," Agarkar added.

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"BCCI has been instrumental as well with all the academies that have happened. You learn a lot quicker. Boys today at 15-16 are a lot fitter than they were and should be now with the amount of knowledge, awareness, and facilities available," Agarkar concluded.

With 316 runs in five games, including two fifties and a century in the last game, Kohli is currently highest run-getter and the current holder of the Orange Cap in IPL 2024.