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India is gearing up to face South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados on Saturday, June 27. The Indian team has shown strong performance throughout the tournament, but Virat Kohli's form remains a concern.

Kohli has struggled in this tournament, scoring only 75 runs across seven matches with an average of 10.71 as an opener. Despite his rare failure in an ICC event, the Indian team management continues to support him.

Captain Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in Kohli, suggesting that he might save his best performance for the final. Head coach Rahul Dravid was also seen comforting Kohli after his nine-run dismissal against Englan

strategy of playing Kohli as an opener has not worked. This approach was initially considered the best way to include him in the playing eleven.

This is not his game. He is going too early for it, especially with Rohit Sharma playing aggressively at the other end." Shastri believes Kohli should spend more time at the crease to play his natural game.

After seven matches, it is clear that Kohli would have been better suited to batting at number three. The pitches in the West Indies could have complemented his style of play in this position.

Possible Adjustments for Final

The traditional role of a number three batter involves assessing conditions and building an innings before playing freely. This could have strengthened India's batting lineup significantly.


Despite qualifying unbeaten for the final, India must decide whether to revert Kohli to his original number three spot. There are two potential ways to achieve this change without disrupting the team's balance

Option One: Opening with Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant has been batting at three during this tournament but has had mixed results after initial success against Ireland and Pakistan. Given Kohli's early dismissals, Pant opening with Rohit Sharma could be a viable option.

This adjustment would also provide India with a left-hand, right-hand opening combination, potentially unsettling South Africa's bowlers and allowing Kohli to return to number three.

Option Two: Opening with Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson has shown excellent form in IPL 2024 but hasn't played a game yet in this tournament. With Shivam Dube's form under scrutiny and limited contributions with the ball, Samson could be a better choice.

Samson's technical skills and power-hitting make him a strong candidate for opening. He has opened twice for India since 2022 and scored 77 runs off 42 balls against Ireland on one occasion.

If Samson opens, Kohli can bat at three while Pant moves to five-a position more familiar to him as a wicketkeeper-batter.


The Indian team faces a crucial decision ahead of the final match against South Africa. Adjusting their batting order could be key to securing victory and addressing Kohli's current struggles effectively.