The ongoing India vs Australia Test at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane saw a major talking point on Day 1, as Virat Kohli’s dismissal left many fans and experts scratching their heads. The former India captain fell for just 3 runs off 16 balls, caught behind off Josh Hazlewood’s wide delivery, and once again found himself trapped by the age-old issue of chasing deliveries outside the off-stump.
Kohli’s Impulsive Shot Leaves India in Trouble
Kohli’s dismissals in recent years have often been linked to playing at deliveries outside his off-stump, and his latest failure during the 3rd Test of the series against Australia at the Gabba was no exception. The delivery from Hazlewood, which was well outside the off-stump, should have been left alone, but Kohli, perhaps feeling the pressure, went after it and edged the ball to wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
This came at a crucial time in the match, with India already reeling at 22/3 after the dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. Kohli’s wicket left India further exposed, and his impatience in that moment raised questions about his shot selection.
Sunil Gavaskar Slams Kohli for Lack of Patience
As expected, former India legend Sunil Gavaskar was quick to offer his opinion on Kohli’s shot. Gavaskar, who has often been vocal about cricketing discipline, minced no words in criticizing the veteran batter’s lack of patience. Speaking on Channel 7, the former India captain said:
“If it was on the fourth stump I could understand, but this was wide, on the seventh, eighth stump – there was no need to play that.”
He emphasized that Kohli should have been more patient in a situation where India had already lost two wickets early in their chase. Kohli’s decision to play an unnecessary shot exposed him to the kind of pressure that had been mounting on him throughout his recent performances.
The Wider Issue: Kohli’s Ongoing Struggle with the Off-Stump Trap
This dismissal was not an isolated incident; it marks the continuation of a worrying pattern in Kohli’s batting. Despite his immense talent and consistency over the years, the issue of playing at wide deliveries outside the off-stump has plagued Kohli, especially in challenging conditions like those at the Gabba.
Gavaskar Urges Kohli to Show Patience
Gavaskar was quick to point out that had Kohli shown more restraint and waited for a better delivery to play, he could have been still at the crease, providing support to his partner, KL Rahul. The rain delays and intermittent play on Day 1 further added to the frustration, as India were left struggling at 48/4 by the end of Day 1, with KL Rahul (33 not out) and Rohit Sharma (0 not out) at the crease.
“Kohli would be very, very disappointed. He could have been not out with KL Rahul if he had shown some patience,” Gavaskar added.
India’s Struggle: Day 1 Recap
Rain played a significant role in restricting play on Day 1, with only 13.2 overs possible before the covers came on due to the weather. After resuming on Day 2, Australia managed to post a hefty total of 445 all out, with Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) anchoring the innings. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a stellar performance, taking 5 wickets for 72 runs.
In reply, India’s top order faltered early. Jaiswal, Gill, and Kohli were dismissed cheaply, putting significant pressure on the remaining batsmen to recover the innings.
The Road Ahead: Can Kohli Bounce Back?
The focus now shifts to whether Virat Kohli can overcome his mental block and show the patience and discipline required in the next innings. For India to mount a successful chase, Kohli will need to come good, as the team relies on him to lead from the front, especially in testing conditions like those at the Gabba.
Conclusion: A Call for Patience and Responsibility
In conclusion, Sunil Gavaskar’s comments highlight the growing frustration among experts and fans alike regarding Virat Kohli’s inconsistency with the bat. His failure to curb the temptation of chasing wide deliveries has cost India dearly in crucial moments. Kohli’s ability to adapt and show restraint will be key for his own form and India’s chances of turning this Test around.
As the series progresses, it remains to be seen whether Virat Kohli can address this ongoing issue and return to his best, or if his off-stump trap will continue to haunt him.
