"Virat Kohli will score 100"- Monty Panesar makes bold claim ahead of IND vs SA T20 World Cup final

Former England left-arm spinner Monty Panesar has backed star Indian batter Virat Kohli to score a hundred in the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa. Panesar also believes the Men in Blue will pip the Proteas to the title in Barbados on Saturday, June 29.

Kohli has hit a rough patch in the T20 World Cup, with just 75 runs from seven innings at an average of 10.71. He scored a run-a-ball nine against England in the semifinal.

Here's what Monty Panesar had to say to ANI:

"India will win the T20 World Cup final, and Virat Kohli will score 100."

Kohli smashed a brilliant six over mid-wicket off Reece Topley in the semifinal. However, soon after, he tried a similar shot and the low bounce on the Guyana wicket saw the ball hit his leg stump.

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Rohit Sharma isn't worried about Virat Kohli's returns

Indian captain Rohit Sharma had no concerns whatsoever with Virat Kohli's form going into the final. He explained how Kohli's ability to rise in the big games is keeping the team hopeful about the former captain coming good in the final against South Africa.

Here's what Rohit said in the post-match presentation after the win over England:

"He (Kohli) is a quality player. Any player can go through that. We do understand his class, and we do understand his importance in all these big games. Form is never a problem. When you've played cricket for 15 years, form is never a problem. He's looking good, the intent is there, and he's probably saving for the final.

"Absolutely (backing Kohli for the final)."

A fine 58 from Rohit Sharma helped India score 171/7 in their 20 overs in the semifinal. In reply, England couldn't get any momentum into their innings as they were bundled out for just 103 in 16.4 overs.