This year’s RCB unit has a unique quality: Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden, the legendary former hitter for Australia, offered his thoughts on Virat Kohli’s chase masterclass. He examined Kohli’s strategy for pursuing the target during his innings. Hayden also underlined how crucial the IPL’s net run rate is.

Hayden also discussed his impressions of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) well-rounded play. He claimed that it was the ideal target for the Indian batting mainstay to pursue. The fact that the asking rate was within reach greatly aided Kohli in adjusting his innings.

“Virat Kohli could have easily chased down this total. On such a surface, he thrives if you find yourself in a situation that is par or little above par. As his partner, Phil Salt must play a key role in increasing the strike and scoring rates. With the Kolkata Knight Riders, Kohli has continued precisely where he left off, but tonight and the previous two seasons have shown us “Virat Kohli 2.0.” In the middle overs, he was particularly destructive. In the powerplay, he finds it simple to keep up with pace, but today he kept his strike rate above 170 during the middle overs, which was exactly what was required,” Matthew Hayden exclusively told JioHotstar.

“We discuss the importance of net run rate every season, and this year is no exception. Remember last season? Net run rate was crucial when RCB needed to make a late comeback. It will be crucial this season as well. For Rajat Patidar, the new captain, it was a decisive and significant win. It surely helps that Virat Kohli is playing well. Their bowling order appeared to be sound; Josh Hazlewood did what he does best, and Krunal Pandya was a useful asset through the middle. He continued, “I think there’s something special about this unit this year when I look at RCB’s setup for the first time in a long time.”

Matthew Hayden on the role of Krunal and the CSK vs. MI match

Additionally, Matthew Hayden offered his thoughts on Krunal Pandya’s performance and influence during the opening match of the 2025 Indian Premier League. He praised Pandya’s background and his handling of the pressure-filled situation during Saturday’s game. In addition, the former Australian batting legend offered his opinions on the next “El Clasico” between the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.

“He was a brilliant bowler and a really astute pick. It was a great setup, his change of speed, his ability to attack the stumps. Experience is crucial in stressful situations, and he demonstrated serious character. Regarding Pandya’s influence, the cricket analyst said, “RCB had a great comeback after appearing to be in serious difficulty at one time.

“What a fantastic fixture. There is so much history between these two sides. Additionally, CSK has dominated the game at Chepauk, much like Mumbai does at Wankhede. A victory there would be noteworthy, and CSK’s spin unit, which is among the finest in the league, would be essential. It’s wonderful to see that their long-time friend Ravichandran Ashwin has returned. On a wicket that I anticipate will give turn, he might be crucial. In reference to the forthcoming third IPL 2025 match, Hayden concluded, “It’s only fitting that the Mumbai Indians play in the season opener at Chepauk.