Not because it is some random praise,but because Ashwin is looking at small match-up details which usually decide big games.
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin clearly believes Virat Kohli has enough game sense to handle what Gujarat Titans may throw at him in Ahmedabad . And honestly,that is not small thing ah,because final pressure and bowling plans both can make even settled batters look uncomfortable .
Kohli has been big reason behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) reaching their second consecutive final . He has not just scored runs,but played that stabilising role where others can bat around him and take risks .
And while speaking on Jio Hotstar,Ashwin praised Kohli's reading of game,especially against Gujarat's bowling attack and Kagiso Rabada . He said,"Virat is very smart,actually, in terms of understanding what's coming his way."
Few things standing out from Ashwin's comments:
- Kohli understands opposition tactics and adjusts during game.
- Rajat Patidar's aggressive style against spin could matter a lot for RCB.
- Gujarat Titans have tried targeting Kohli with wide deliveries.
But most interesting part is how Ashwin explained GT's plan against Kohli . According to him,they have often tried to bowl really wide and tempt him into chasing balls outside off stump. His words were,"What GT have done to Virat is bowl really wide... He's gotten out nicking those balls over last two years."
And tbh,this is where Kohli's experience becomes big factor . In their last match in Dharamshala,he managed to counter Rabada's tactics and did not just fall into same trap blindly . That kind of adjustment in final can change whole mood of innings .
Ashwin also spoke about RCB's batting approach,where Kohli staying at crease gives freedom to others . He said,"Everybody in the RCB team would want Virat anchored in there for as long as he can..." And that line pretty much explains RCB's thinking only.
At same time,Rajat Patidar is another angle Gujarat cannot ignore . Ashwin pointed out his strength against spin,so Gujarat may have to think more about pace options if they want to slow him down properly .
So yes,this final is not just RCB vs Gujarat Titans on paper . It is Kohli reading wide-ball trap,Rabada trying to execute plans,Patidar forcing changes,and Ashwin basically reminding everyone that small tactical battles decide nights like this…
