T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli out for 9 vs England, suffers rare failure in ICC knockout clash

Star Indian batter Virat Kohli was dismissed for just 9 runs in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 against England, a rare failure in ICC knockout matches that left fans and teammates in shock. Topley delivered a well-pitched ball at a good length, which slightly shaped back into the right-hander. Kohli, attempting to shovel the ball over mid-wicket, was beaten by the movement, and the ball clipped the top of the leg stump. Topley had his man, and Kohli walked away disconsolate, his innings reading 9 runs off 9 balls, including a single six.

This dismissal marks a significant departure from Kohli's usual form in ICC knockout matches. Known for his ability to rise to the occasion, Kohli's record in such high-stakes games is exemplary. He has previously scored a half-century in every T20 World Cup knockout game, including 72* in the 2014 semi-final, 77 in the 2014 final, 89* in the 2016 semi-final, and 50 in the 2022 semi-final. However, Kohli's recent form in the international arena has been a cause for concern. Despite his stellar



performances in the IPL, he has struggled to replicate that success in the T20 World Cup, managing only 75 runs in seven games at an average of 10.50. His highest score in this campaign was 37, and he registered two ducks

Reece Topley has struck for England with a well-executed delivery, as their disciplined bowling attack maintains its high standards. The bowlers have been hitting full lengths without offering drives, aided by subtle movement from the overhead conditions. Topley has effectively used this to his advantage, keeping the stumps in play and restricting the batters' room, earning a crucial wicket. This breakthrough can be partly attributed to Virat Kohli's aggressive approach in this World Cup. Kohli has stepped out to pacers inside the Powerplay seven times in this tournament, managing just three runs and getting dismissed once. This is the highest frequency of such attempts in any series since April 2019, where detailed ball-by-ball data is available. Kohli's quest for quick runs has involved taking risks, which have not paid off in this instance.