IND vs PAK: Virat Kohli Is Targeting The Mid-Wicket Region - Sanjay Bangar Talks About Batter's Approach Against Spinners

Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar talked about Virat Kohli’s batting approach against the spinners. He believes that the batter is targeting the mid-wicket region and there is a reason behind his improvement. 

Virat Kohli reportedly batted against spinners in the training camp of the Indian Cricket Team in Alur, Bengaluru ahead of the Asia Cup 2023. The batter batted with great intensity on Day 3 and ticked almost every box right in the build-up to the tournament. 

Virat Kohli’s major focus was on spinners on Day 3 of the camp. The right-hander played with an attacking mindset against them and took the likes of Varun Chakravarthy, Hrithik Shokeen, and Rahul Chahar to the cleaners in the nets. It is learned that he’s keen to do well against the spinners of Pakistan. 

Sanjay Bangar said that looking at the batting visuals of Virat Kohli it seemed that he’s targeting the mid-wicket region. He also pointed out the sweep shots that the batter played and remarked that he was trying to use the depth of the crease. Speaking to Star Sports, he explained: 

“From the visuals that I have seen, it is very clear that Virat Kohli is targeting the mid-wicket region. We saw him play some big shots and sweep. Everybody knows that Kohli doesn’t play the sweep shot very often, so the field is set accordingly. He also played a lot of backfoot shots, using the depth of the crease.” 

Sanjay Bangar highlighted that Virat Kohli is playing bat tap which will help him to judge the length of the ball. He added that these minor things are the reason behind his improvement. He added: 

“Virat Kohli has been using his feet very well lately. There is a reason behind this improvement. There was a phase in between where he played with a high or a pre-loaded backlift. He is now playing bat tap, which is very helpful in judging the length of the ball. This is why his shot-making has become so brilliant.”

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Sanjay Bangar highlighted that by making Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill bat together, the India team is making them ready for the situation if Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma get out early. He explained: 

“Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill also batted together today. This was because if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli get out early, those two will be at the crease. Similarly, if Virat is at the crease and the No. 4 gets out, India could promote a left-handed batter, which is why, he batted with Ravindra Jadeja and a provisional situation was created.” 

The Asia Cup 2023 will begin on 30th August. India team will open their campaign against Pakistan on 2nd September in Kandy.