Irfan Pathan Hits Back With Strong Statement Against Virat Kohli’s Strike Rate Critics, Says ‘He Can Anchor…’ News24 –

Virat Kohli provided another batting masterclass with a raging half-century on Saturday, at the Chinnaswamy Stadium against Chennai Super Kings The RCB batter was in incredible form thrashing 62 in 33 balls, with 5 fours and 5 enormous sixes at an amazing strike rate of 187.88, it was the fourth IPL fifty in succession by Kohli and now he has the Orange Cap after having accumulated 505 runs off 11 games.

Muffling the voices of those who were criticizing his strike rate, the 36-year-old conditioned himself in a matter of fact manner to suit the situation, bursting out with a variety of shots that had CSK bowlers in awe. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan complimented Kohli for his game play and applauded his strike rate.

He can anchor the innings, like he did last game with a strike rate close to 100. He can go aggressive, like today with a strike rate of 187. He is true champion in white ball cricket. He is Virat Kohli!

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) May 3, 2025

“He can anchor the innings, like he did last game with a strike rate close to 100. He can go aggressive, like today with a strike rate of 187. He is true champion in white ball cricket. He is Virat Kohli!” Pathan wrote on X.

Kohli’s knock also saw him etch multiple records into the history books. He surpassed David Warner to become the highest run-scorer against a single franchise in IPL history. Additionally, he is also the first cricketer to hit over 300 sixes for a single T20 team. He also surpassed Chris Gayle to become the record six-hitter at one IPL venue, further solidifying his stature as one of the competition’s all-time greats.