Virat Kohli’s “Slow” 50 vs MI Sparks Debate Despite Strong IPL 2026 Form; Aakash Chopra Criticises Knock
Virat Kohli has found himself at the centre of debate despite another strong season in IPL 2026, after former India cricketer Aakash Chopra criticised his innings against Mumbai Indians as “very slow”.
Kohli, representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru, scored a 38-ball half-century in a match where RCB posted a massive total of 240. However, while the team secured a dominant win, Chopra felt the innings did not match modern T20 demands.
Despite the criticism, Kohli’s overall numbers remain impressive this season. He has scored 179 runs in IPL 2026 so far at an average close to 60 and a strike rate of around 163, continuing his consistent run in the tournament.
Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, said that while Kohli contributed to a strong opening stand, the tempo of the innings was below expectations in the context of the match. He added that modern IPL batting requires more aggressive intent, especially when the opposition is under pressure early.
He also pointed out moments where Kohli appeared unsettled during the innings, including what he described as wasted reviews and signs of distraction, suggesting it reflected a lack of rhythm on the day.
In contrast, Chopra praised Kohli’s opening partner Phil Salt, who played a destructive knock of 78 off 36 balls, helping set the tone for RCB’s massive total.
Salt’s aggressive approach was highlighted as the ideal template for modern T20 batting, with Chopra noting that the early 100-plus partnership laid the foundation for RCB’s dominance.
Chopra also lauded RCB captain Rajat Patidar for his explosive batting display, where he scored 53 off just 20 balls against MI. He suggested that Patidar’s rapid acceleration and improved power-hitting could make a strong case for his return to the Indian national setup.
While Kohli’s innings has sparked discussion, his overall form remains one of RCB’s biggest strengths this season. However, the debate around tempo and strike rate in modern T20 cricket continues, even for one of the game’s most experienced batters.
