T20 World Cup 2024: Sourav Ganguly advises India to open with Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, the mainstay for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has been in outrageous form with the bat in IPL 2024, and has amassed 634 runs in 12 innings. With five half-centuries and a ravishing century under his belt, the determined batter has undeniably left a significant impression. Notably, the current Orange Cap holder has been striking at 153.51 up until now, which is higher than his T20I strike rate by quite some margin.

The former Indian captain and ex-President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Sourav Ganguly, was thoroughly fascinated by Kohli's showings in the cash-rich league. Insinuating Kohli's 92-run knock against Punjab Kings at Dharamsala, Ganguly insisted the RCB opener to be utilized as an opener for India as well in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.

Also Read: Virat Kohli has been relentless in pursuit of success, India would want him to continue IPL form in T20 WC: Anil Kumble

“Virat is playing exceptionally well. The way Kohli batted last night – 90 [sic 92] in quick time, you need to use him as opener in the T20 World Cup. He should open, evidenced by his last few IPL innings which have been outstanding,” Ganguly spoke to The Hindu.

There are better players than Dinesh Karthik: Ganguly

In a recent appearance, Dinesh Karthik expressed his wish to return to the Indian squad for the world cup. However, chief of the All India Men's Senior Selection Committee, Ajit Agarkar went for the likes of Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant. Happy with Agarkar's decision, the Prince of Kolkata highlighted that although Karthik put forward some sensational performances, other wicketkeeper-batters overtook the senior one by some margin, given they were also handling captaincy duties for the respective franchises.

“Dinesh played well but there are better players than Dinesh. I don’t think you can leave Sanju or Rishabh out. There are better players than Dinesh Karthik at the moment,” remarked the 51-year-old.