'Virat Kohli is a game-changer' - Navjot Singh Sidhu on IND-PAK clash in T20 World Cup 2024

Both India and Pakistan are gearing up for their highly-anticipated clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on (Sunday) June 9, in New York. Former Indian opener Navjot Singh Sidhu believes star batter Virat Kohli can be the potential game-changer for the Men in Blue in the upcoming blockbuster clash. 

India will be riding high on confidence coming into this match as they defeated Ireland in their first game by eight wickets. Interestingly in that match, Kohli opened the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma, and both might be opening again in the forthcoming game.

The 35-year-old couldn't make much impact in the game as he walked back to the pavilion after adding just one run to India's tally. Speaking ahead of the marquee clash, Sidhu emphasized the need for game-changing performances from batters who can score at an extraordinarily high strike rate. 

"See, game changers are those who will score 2 runs in a ball. You are talking about strike rates, 1.5, 1.7, but some people are scoring 2.5 runs, three runs per ball. The innings of Romario Shepherd, 10 balls, 30, right. There are some people who in the end will come and score in 10 balls, a 35. Now that is the quality. That 35 in ten balls, if two people score and support someone like Virat Kohli is a game-changer. Make no mistake about it," Sidhu said at a special 'Star Sports Press Room'.

Also Read: Another injury scare for Rohit Sharma ahead of IND vs PAK clash

 Pakistan are in a do-or-die situation against arch-rivals India

Notably, Pakistan suffered a disappointing loss against the United States in what turned out to be a super over thriller in their previous game. A win against India is crucial for Babar Azam's side to regain momentum going ahead in the tournament and keep their chances and hopes intact to qualify for the Super 8 rounds of the T20 World Cup 2024.

Also Read: Mohammad Kaif reflects on what Virat Kohli needs to do ahead of Pakistan clash

Hence, the upcoming fixture of the arch-rivals is almost like a do-or-die situation for the Green Shirts. The key reason for that has been the structure of the tournament this time where every match will count and the net run rate (NRR) will be quite significant if the teams are in a tie-breaker scenario in the group points tally.