The much-awaited five match Test series between India and Australia will be starting from November 22, but all eyes are on one man-Virat Kohli. The 36-year-old batter, who is a prolific run-scorer and a powerhouse of India’s batting line-up, is now under severe scrutiny as he has been struggling with rough patch. It would be interesting to know if Kohli can recapture his old self or his spell of prolonged slump continues.
Virat Kohli’s Recent Form
Kohli, the poster boy for consistency, is one who literally had a run of form going in international cricket in the past. Over the past five years, the former India captain has managed to score only two hundreds in Test cricket; this is a long way from his earlier flourishing years. His recent numbers in the format paint quite a worrying picture: over his last 10 innings, Kohli has registered just one half-century, and his average barely above 24.
In 2024, his struggles have been even more apparent, with an average of just 22.72 from the six Tests he has played this year. Such figures raise questions about Kohli’s current standing in world cricket, particularly as he prepares to face Australia, a team known for its aggressive and unrelenting tactics.
Sanjay Manjrekar’s Insightful Take
Sanjay Manjrekar, a former cricketer believes that Kohli is aware of how Australia will target him in the upcoming series. The off-stump line strategy which New Zealand used to great success against Kohli might just be the key weapon for the Australians, felt Manjrekar. In recent times, there have been instances when that tactic has paid rich dividends; it may just be central to their plan to unsettle the Indian batter.
“I think Virat knows exactly what’s going to be planned. They’ll start with that line outside the off stump and gauge what his mindset is. These days, he often leaves balls outside off and looks to drive anything pitched up,” Manjrekar said on Star Sports.
“Australia might also try to cramp him for room and attack his body since he likes to get forward,” he added.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Vs Australia: Record Breaking Test Knocks That Will Go Down In Cricket History
Virat Kohli “Fully Aware” Of Australia’s Strategy
“This was a tactic New Zealand used effectively. If he’s focused on balls outside off stump, bowlers like Josh Hazlewood might target that typical Vernon Philander line on middle stump. Australia will test various strategies, and Virat Kohli is fully aware of that,” said Manjrekar.
Although Kohli is having a tough time lately, his reputation as one of the modern greats still puts him among the strong contenders. The bigger question now is whether he can turn the hands of the clock back and silence the critics.
