Virat Kohli's IPL form: A return to peak performance?

Virat Kohli is on fire in this year's IPL, leading the charge for the Challengers. He's currently the leading run-scorer of the season and has hit more half-centuries than anyone else. What's really catching attention is his stellar performance, reminiscent of his peak form back in 2016. Let's break down his standout attributes this season and compare them to his performance six years ago.

Run-scoring machine:

Kohli hit a milestone with a blazing 92 against Punjab Kings, becoming only the second player after KL Rahul to notch up over 600 runs in a single IPL season. This consistency in scoring big runs is a signature of his top form. In 2016, Kohli was unstoppable, amassing a record-breaking 973 runs. This year, he's not far behind, already matching his runs from 2013 and just a few runs shy of his total from last season. With five half-centuries and a century, Kohli's batting prowess is undeniable.

Kohli's scoring rate this season has been impressive, surpassing even his remarkable 2016 performance. He's scoring at 153.5 runs per hundred balls, a significant improvement from previous seasons where he struggled to accelerate the innings.

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More boundary hitting:

Kohli's boundary-hitting frequency has been exceptional this season, with a boundary every 4.9 deliveries, his best ever in the IPL. His aggressive intent is evident in his increased six-hitting ability, clearing the ropes more frequently than before.

Kohli's attacking approach against spinners has paid dividends, with a scoring rate of 138.8 against them, his highest in seven seasons. His ability to take on leg spinners particularly stands out, showing a willingness to take risks and play more aggressively.

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Kohli has addressed his middle-overs scoring issue, boosting his strike rate to 144.4, second only to his 2016 performance. He's no longer slowing down after the powerplay, ensuring a steady flow of runs throughout the innings.

Kohli has been a force to reckon with in the powerplay, scoring 294 runs at a strike rate of 159.8, his best-ever performance in the first six overs. This aggressive start sets the tone for RCB's innings and puts pressure on the opposition bowlers.

Despite not matching his record-breaking 2016 season, Kohli's adaptability and determination make him a formidable T20 batsman in 2024. He's overcome past challenges and evolved his game to excel in all aspects, making him more dangerous than ever before.