NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli's return to ODIs - the only format the star batter currently plays in international cricket - had not been impressive, as he suffered back-to-back ducks against Australia in the first two matches. However, the former captain bounced back in style, scoring a fine unbeaten half-century in the third and final ODI in Sydney.
His future in international cricket continues to be a topic of discussion among the cricketing fraternity, as his appearances are now limited to ODIs following his retirement from Tests and T20Is. Concerns are often raised about his lack of match practice.
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Former Australian pacer Andy Bichel voiced his support for Kohli, saying the Indian star can turn his Test and T20 retirements into an advantage by channeling all his energy and focus into the 50-over format - a domain where he has traditionally excelled.
"I think for someone like Virat he is very fit. He's going along really well. Obviously, he still wants to play the IPL. RCB won it last year so he's keen to go back-to-back there and do that,' Bichel told Times of India.
"I guess dropping out of Test cricket gives him a focus point, to focus on his 50-over cricket. If he's scoring well and giving it to the team, like he has been, then you can't fault him for that," he continued. "His currency is runs. He just needs to go out there and keep scoring and if he is, he can make the 2027 World Cup."
Bichel drew a parallel between Kohli and Ricky Ponting, highlighting their similar playing styles, mindset, and intensity.
"Virat Kohli is an absolute legend of the game. He always reminds of Ricky Ponting. Ricky played the same game, a very good batter. Virat is one of those players who really took the game on, really energetic and great to watch. Same as Ricky," explained Bichel.
Kohli will next be seen in action during the ODI series against South Africa, starting on November 30 in Ranchi.
