The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has seen some intriguing performances, but one topic that has generated significant discussion is Virat Kohli’s struggles with the new ball against Australia. Despite his vast experience and impressive records, Kohli has faced a tough challenge in the recent Tests, managing only 126 runs in five innings so far. This includes a single half-century (100 not out) and disappointing scores of 5, 7, 11, and 3.
Kohli’s Recent Struggles with the New Ball
While Virat Kohli’s overall statistics in Australia are stellar—1,478 runs in 16 matches with seven centuries—his recent performances have raised questions. In the Perth Test, the Australian bowlers, particularly Josh Hazlewood, exposed Kohli’s weaknesses, especially his vulnerability to deliveries outside the off-stump, which often caught him off guard. The extra bounce and the short-of-length deliveries in Perth added to the pressure, but Kohli’s continued failures have led to growing concerns.
Despite being one of India’s best-ever batters, Kohli has struggled to make his mark in the ongoing series, particularly when facing the new ball. His tendency to chase deliveries outside off-stump has been a repeated pattern, leading to his dismissals. This issue has been particularly highlighted by former India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who has offered his insights into the situation.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Insight: Kohli and the New Ball
Cheteshwar Pujara, known for his resilience and success in Australian conditions, shared an interesting perspective on Kohli’s current form. According to Pujara, the real issue might not just be Kohli’s technique but also the circumstances under which he has had to face the new ball. Pujara pointed out that Kohli is often forced to bat early, facing the fresh new ball and the aggressive Australian bowlers when India’s top order fails to build a solid foundation.
Pujara, speaking to Star Sports, elaborated on the challenges Kohli faces while coming in early to face a fresh new ball:
“His (Kohli) technique is not made for the new ball. His batting should come after 10, 15, or 20 overs. If he plays the new ball, the bowlers are fresh, and their confidence is also high. When they get two wickets, the entire team is charged up. So when you come to bat at that stage, it’s not easy.”
This observation underscores an important point: Kohli’s success against the old ball—as seen in his century in Perth—suggests that the issue may not be with his overall technique but rather the conditions under which he is forced to bat.
Kohli’s Record in Australia: A Mixed Bag
Virat Kohli’s record in Australia has been impressive, making him one of the most successful Indian batsmen Down Under. With 1,478 runs in 16 matches, including seven centuries, Kohli has consistently been a key performer for India in Australian conditions. His most recent century in the Perth Test is a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in difficult conditions.
However, the current series has seen a slight dip in form, leading to more scrutiny. With 126 runs in five innings, the pressure is building on the Indian star to regain his rhythm and contribute more significantly in the ongoing Test series.
Is Kohli’s Technique to Blame?
While Kohli’s technique is often seen as one of the most technically sound in modern cricket, his recent issues against the new ball have led some experts to speculate whether his approach needs adjustment. His tendency to chase deliveries outside the off-stump, a hallmark of his aggressive playing style, has been a cause for concern. While Sunil Gavaskar, the cricketing legend, has advised Kohli to show more patience and leave those deliveries, Kohli’s own challenges with the new ball are more complex than just technique.
The context in which Kohli faces the new ball also plays a crucial role. As Pujara rightly points out, when Kohli faces fresh bowlers with high confidence, the pressure is immense, and the wicket-taking momentum is often in the hands of the opposition.
Moving Forward: What Can Kohli Do?
For Virat Kohli, the key to overcoming his struggles lies in adjusting his mindset and approach. While his record in Australia is unparalleled, the ongoing series has shown that the conditions and circumstances in which he faces the new ball need careful attention. Kohli might need to take a step back, assess his timing and footwork, and refine his strategy when approaching deliveries outside the off-stump.
Moreover, India’s top order must step up to provide Kohli with more opportunities to bat after the new ball has softened. The more Kohli can face bowlers with the older ball, the better his chances of making an impact.
Conclusion: Kohli’s Resolve Will Be Tested
Despite the recent setbacks, it’s essential to remember that Virat Kohli’s legacy as one of India’s greatest ever batsmen is firmly intact. His ability to overcome challenges and bounce back stronger has been well-documented throughout his career. As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy progresses, Kohli’s ability to adjust to the pressures of the new ball will be crucial. And as Pujara pointed out, if Kohli gets the chance to play after the new ball has lost its shine, we could see the best of him again.
The ongoing series provides the perfect opportunity for Virat Kohli to showcase his immense talent and remind us why he remains a key player for India in all formats of the game. The road ahead might be tough, but with his experience and determination, Kohli’s resilience will continue to shine.
