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Former Indian head coach and accomplished all-rounder Ravi Shastri has proposed a significant strategic change for renowned cricketer Virat Kohli as he eyes the forthcoming Asia Cup and ICC Cricket World Cup. Shastri emphasized that Kohli should consider altering his batting position, suggesting a move down the order, a maneuver he had contemplated during his tenure as coach for the 2019 World Cup in England.
During an interview with Star Sports, Shastri outlined his recommendation, advocating for Ishan Kishan's promotion to the opening slot. Additionally, Shastri proposed that skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill should be open to adapting to new positions if the team requires it.
Shastri underscored that shifting Virat Kohli lower in the batting order could diversify the top-heavy lineup, infusing valuable experience and batting depth into the lower-middle order.
"Ishan Kishan should be at the top of the order. Given Rohit's extensive experience as a captain, he has the versatility to bat at three or four. It's essential to consider the player's perspective. How comfortable will Shubman Gill be batting at a different position than at the top? No position is set in stone. If the team needs Virat to bat at four, he should do so for the team," Shastri conveyed on Star Sports.
Shastri disclosed that the notion of positioning Virat Kohli lower had crossed his mind during his tenure as head coach of Team India during the previous edition of the World Cup in England.
"There were instances when I pondered this during the past two World Cups. I might have discussed this with MSK (former Chief Selector MSK Prasad) regarding Virat batting at four to diversify the top order. We were vulnerable if we lost early wickets. This insight reflects the significance of experience in breaking that pattern," Shastri shared.
Considering Virat Kohli's performance record at number four, Shastri further emphasized, "Virat Kohli's track record at number four is quite impressive."
While Virat Kohli currently holds the title of the world's best all-format batter and arguably the finest across various formats, his most prolific format is One Day Internationals (ODIs).
In 275 ODIs and 265 innings, Kohli amassed an impressive 12,898 runs at an average of 57.32 and a strike rate exceeding 93. His ODI track record boasts 46 centuries and 65 half-centuries, with a highest score of 183.
Throughout his career, Kohli has dominated the number three spot. In 210 innings, he notched 10,777 runs at an average of 60.20, featuring 39 centuries and 55 fifties.
Virat Kohli's consistent performance at number four also stands out. In 39 innings at this position, he tallied 1,767 runs at an average of 55.21, accompanied by seven centuries and eight half-centuries.
Drawing parallels with other top batsmen like Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, who comprise the contemporary 'Fab Four' alongside Kohli, Shastri encouraged the Indian cricketer to innovate his batting approach in line with the evolving game.
"Adapting to the changing landscape of the game is crucial, regardless of a player's stature. This holds true for Virat Kohli as well. Observing global players like Joe Root, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and even Kohli himself at various points in his career, they've had to evolve. Innovations frequently arise, and players seek to elevate their game. The current landscape involves a distinct approach," Shastri remarked.
Virat Kohli's performance in 2023 remains commendable. In 10 ODIs, he garnered 427 runs with an average of 53.37, featuring two centuries and a fifty, with a pinnacle of 166 against Sri Lanka.
Across 17 matches spanning multiple formats and 19 innings this year, Kohli amassed 984 runs at an average of 54.66, accompanied by four centuries and two half-centuries. His highest score of 186 came against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.