IPL 2026 | 'It feels like a different game altogether': Virat Kohli reveals KL Rahul chat on T20 cricket
T20 cricket has transformed significantly, demanding technique, innovation, and adaptability from batters, while bowlers employ new strategies to counter high scores. Despite the rise of young talent, experienced players like Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar continue to excel, proving age is no barrier in the evolving game. Kohli emphasizes T20's shift into a distinct, high-intensity format.
NEW DELHI: How much has T20 cricket changed over the years? A lot. The old formula of simply seeing the ball and hitting it hard has evolved into a game driven by technique, innovation and adaptability.
Bat swings, unorthodox shots, new inventions and bottom-hand power have all become part of a modern batter’s playbook. As batters continue to evolve, bowlers too are constantly finding new ways to survive in this high-scoring era. Wide yorkers, slower deliveries, knuckle balls and clever variations are now key weapons in a bowler’s arsenal.
Fielding standards, meanwhile, have touched another level altogether - breathtaking boundary catches, relay efforts and athletic stops that leave fans stunned in the stands. So, has T20 cricket become purely a youngsters’ game? Not really.
While teenage sensations and young stars like Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Priyansh Arya and Abhishek Sharma are firing on all cylinders, bowlers such as Sakib Hussain, Prince Yadav, Praful Hinge and Anshul Kamboj are also making a strong impact with the ball. At the same time, the experienced players - especially those in the 35-plus club - continue to match the intensity and hunger of the younger generation. Virat Kohli, now 35, is still smashing bowlers all around the park with the same intensity as players much younger than him.