Michael Clarke Backs Virat Kohli to Shine in Sydney ODI Despite Early Struggles.
Virat Kohli has had a difficult start to the ongoing India-Australia ODI series, registering back-to-back ducks in Perth and Adelaide. However, former Australia captain Michael Clarke remains confident that the Indian superstar will bounce back in the final ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Clarke shared his predictions on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast on Friday, picking Kohli as the top run-scorer for Saturday’s decider. “I will go with Joshy for leading wicket-taker in this game. I’ve gone with Virat so far; he’s got two ducks. I am going to go with Virat Kohli for leading run-scorer in this game. Hazlewood leading wickets and Virat leading run-scorer,” Clarke said.
Clarke also tipped India to win the third ODI, giving them a chance to end the series positively ahead of the upcoming T20Is. “India won’t want to go home without a win. Leading into the T20s, a lot of players will want to take confidence into that format,” he added.
Kohli’s Current Form and Challenges
Despite Clarke’s optimism, Kohli’s recent form has been under scrutiny. In the first two ODIs, he faced only 12 deliveries without scoring a run. Critics have highlighted technical issues and a noticeable dip in his usual intensity. Kohli’s past record at the SCG is modest: in seven matches, he has scored 146 runs at an average of 24.33, with only one half-century.
Australia’s Line-Up and Series Context
Australia have already secured the series with 2-0 wins in the opening ODIs. Mitchell Starc is expected to feature alongside Josh Hazlewood, whom Clarke has tipped as a key threat with the ball.
The Stakes for the Final ODI
The third ODI provides India an opportunity to finish the series on a high and for Kohli to regain form. Australia will aim to close out their campaign strongly. With the series result already decided, the match promises tactical battles, momentum shifts, and a preview of players’ confidence heading into the T20Is, making it an exciting contest for fans.
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