Virat Kohli in rare air after 2023 ODI World Cup squad inclusion

India announced its much-anticipated ODI World Cup squad on September 5, which saw the team make some bold decisions. Notably, the Men in Blue have not won a single ICC tournament in ten years and are under tremendous pressure this time around, especially playing at home. However, there is a player who has tasted ODI World Cup success before and can guide the youngsters to get the job done.

Notably, Virat Kohli is the only player to be part of India’s team who won the coveted trophy in the 2011 edition. Royal Challengers Bangalore, his IPL franchise, have reminded the same, as the fans remain optimistic for him to repeat and help the national team win its third ODI World Cup in history.

Kohli’s preparation ahead of ODI World Cup

Star India batter Virat Kohli has not batted much in ODI cricket in recent times. In the match against Nepal, India comfortably won by ten wickets, while in the match against Pakistan, the 34-year-old couldn’t make a mark. He didn’t play in the final two ODIs against West Indies, and in the first match of the series, the Delhi-born cricketer once again did not bat.

Hence, it remains to be a concern going forward as he has not spent much time in the middle. It can very well change in the remaining matches of the Asia Cup, but if it doesn’t, it might bother the team going forward as he is one of the most dependable batters in the squad and the team management would want him to be at his best in the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Virat also has the biggest opportunity to become the first Indian cricketer to win two ODI World Cup trophies. He played an important role in the 2011 edition but has failed to clinch the trophy in the 2015 and 2019 editions despite coming close. Hence, this is a great opportunity for him to cement his legacy and make history.