Hayden's "Fireworks" Remark On Virat Kohli Amid Sunil Gavaskar's Criticism

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart Virat Kohli and Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar engaged in an unexpected battle of words over the batter's 'strike-rate' in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Gavaskar has been regularly criticising Kohli over his inability to get into ulra-attacking mode and rescue RCB's campaign. However, Virat decided to hit back at all those criticising him over his strike-rate, but little did he expect that the cricketer-turned-commentator Gavaskar would be sharp with his reply too.

As there continues to remain a back-and-forth between Kohli and Gavaskar, former Australia opener Matthew Hayden jumped into the debate, saying he expects nothing but fireworks from Virat at the T20 World Cup 2024.

"That strike rate is trending in the right direction, it's trending up. Look at the IPL over the last four years, it's gone from mid and around that 120 then it goes 130 and then 140 and 150. So 150 for me is kind of that sweet spot that starts in and everyone having conversation well where you bat? Is it three, is it open? You know those first six overs, it doesn't matter if Kohli is in those first six overs. You know that there's going to be fireworks," Hayden said on Star Sports.

Hayden feels the support Kohli would have in the Indian team would be much better in comparison to the squad he has at RCB. Hence, there shouldn't be doubt over Kohli's potential performances in the T20 World Cup.

"You also know that these conditions that are going to be in the West Indies. They're not so sure about those conditions in New York. I've seen that overlaid venue and it looks magnificent. But certainly through the West Indies, they're going to be benign conditions and Kohli is going to come in and look to strike away knowing that he has a superb batting side that also has a great strike rate," Hayden added.