Virat Kohli’s only competition in Champions Trophy is himself, says Varun Aaron

As India gears up to face New Zealand in their final group-stage match of the Champions Trophy 2024, all eyes will once again be on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Kohli, who will be playing his 300th ODI, is coming off a sensational century against Pakistan and will look to continue his fine form against a strong New Zealand side on Sunday, March 2.

Kohli showcased his trademark grit in the match against Pakistan, where he built his innings with patience before accelerating at the right moment to reach a well-crafted hundred. Former India fast bowler Varun Aaron believes that Kohli’s only real challenge in the upcoming match will be himself, urging the star batter to maintain clarity and avoid overthinking.

Former pacer backs Kohli and Rohit to dominate against New Zealand

"With the form Virat Kohli is in, I don't think that there is any battle. If there is any battle at all, he has that with himself. If he is in the correct frame of mind, if he is in the zone, I don't think he will face any great trouble against the New Zealand side. We have spoken about Mitchell Santner, and he has taken him down on many occasions," Aaron said while speaking to Star Sports.

Aaron highlighted Kohli’s calculated approach in India's second group-stage game, where he perfectly anchored the innings on a sluggish Dubai pitch before shifting gears towards the end. The former pacer believes that if Kohli maintains a similar mindset, he will be difficult to stop against New Zealand.

Rohit Sharma expected to attack early, says Aaron

Aaron also spoke about India captain Rohit Sharma and his aggressive approach at the top of the order. He predicted that Rohit would go after New Zealand pacer Matt Henry early in the innings, aiming to unsettle him and disrupt his rhythm.

"I think Rohit would go very hard against Matt Henry in the beginning. If he can disturb Matt Henry's lengths early, then he would not pose much trouble to us," Aaron added.

India and New Zealand have faced each other in several high-stakes encounters in recent years, with India winning both their meetings in the 2023 ODI World Cup. As the two teams prepare for another exciting clash, Kohli and Rohit’s form will be crucial in determining India’s chances of finishing the group stage on a high.

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