Bhogle's Burn Book: Kohli's T20 Pyrotechnics Expose Bias, While Rohit's Zero-Zone Echoes in Deafening Silence !

January 15 , 2024

In the aftermath of India's T20 International against Afghanistan, cricket aficionados were treated to more than just the on-field action. A certain tweet from veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle not only raised eyebrows but also cast a spotlight on the dangers of selectively presented statistics and the curious silence on another player's struggles.

Bhogle's tweet dissected Virat Kohli insinuating that the former captain's strike rate in past 170+ run chases has been lackluster. However, a quick examination of the actual statistics reveals a stark contrast to Bhogle's claims. One is left wondering whether this was a genuine oversight or a deliberate attempt to tarnish Kohli's image.

Let's set the record straight with the real numbers. Kohli's scores in 170+ run chases are backed by impressive strike rates:

• 94*(50) - SR: 188

• 85(60) - SR: 141.67

• 40(24) - SR: 166.67

• 63(48) - SR: 131.25

• 16(9) - SR: 177.78

• 22(21) - SR: 104.76

• 29(22) - SR: 131.82

• 50(36) - SR: 138.89

• 65(42) - SR: 154.76

• 82(54) - SR: 151.85

• 43(29) - SR: 148.28

• 45(32) - SR: 140.63

• 11(8) - SR: 137.5

• 29(16) - SR: 181.25

Kohli's prowess in chasing high targets is undeniable, with an average of 60 and an overall strike rate of 151. These numbers paint a picture of a batsman who not only leads from the front but also adapts his game to the needs of the team.

However, what's even more intriguing is Bhogle's selective criticism, as he conveniently neglects the struggles of another high-profile player. Rohit Sharma, the captain, has had a dismal run in T20 chases, His recent Last 5 scores in T20I run chases are 0 vs AFG, 0 vs AFG , 4(7) vs PAK , 0 vs SA , 0 vs SA , hardly paint the picture of a reliable t20i chaser . Including 4 ducks in last 5 t20i chase , Overall 25 single digit score and 23 avg while chasing in T20 internationals

While Bhogle as usual chose to dissect Kohli, he conveniently ignored Rohit's struggles, raising questions about the integrity of the analysis. It's imperative for cricket pundits to maintain objectivity and provide a comprehensive view of player performances, rather than indulging in cherry-picking narratives to fit preconceived notions.

Cricket fans deserve accurate and unbiased analysis, not skewed perspectives driven by personal biases or hidden agendas. As we delve into the intricacies of the game, let's ensure that criticism is fair, constructive, and based on genuine performances rather than perpetuating misleading narratives. After all, in the world of cricket, the numbers don't lie – but sometimes, it seems, the analysts do.