Virat Kohli is at his best in T20s when he opens innings and bats in powerplay overs: Aakash Chopra

Hosting JioCinema’s daily sports show ‘AAKASHVANI’, Aakash Chopra spoke about the India-Afghanistan T20I series that begins on Thursday and what it means in the context of the forthcoming T20I World Cup. Excerpts: 

On whether Virat Kohli will open with Rohit Sharma 

In my opinion, Kohli is at his best in T20s when he opens the innings and bats in the powerplay overs. If you don’t give him that option and if he becomes a little slow against spinners, then it wouldn’t be surprising. That’s because it has happened regularly. So, will Kohli open? I don’t think so. I feel one of either Yashasvi (Jaiswal) or (Shubman) Gill will play. Gill is a senior player so he may play and Yashasvi will have to sit out. It won’t be fair, but that can happen. I see Kohli batting at No. 3. 

On what to expect from the pitch in Mohali 

The dew factor is definitely going to come into play later in the evening. The pitch will be flat and I feel a lot of runs will be scored. The ball will become wet in the evening so I feel chasing will be a better option.  

On Afghanistan’s prospects 

No one takes them lightly. During the ODI World Cup they showed that they are a force to be reckoned with. And this team excels in the T20 format. Almost all their players will be featuring in the IPL. It’s a very decent team. Of course, India will start as firm favourites.  

On what the series means in the larger context 

More than the result of the series, the focus will be mainly on how Rohit plays, can Kohli continue with the same form that he displayed in 2023, who will open, will Shivam Dube get an opportunity? These are the big questions