Virat Kohli's Struggles Against Australia: A Familiar Pattern and Gavaskar's Advice for Redemption
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- December 16, 2024
- 12:25 pm
- 27
- Sports
Virat Kohli's struggles against Australia have become a worrying trend. Once again, he fell victim to a delivery outside the off stump, edging it behind to Alex Carey. Kohli's off-stump weakness has now led to his dismissal four times in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. With an average of just 30.75 in the series, his performance is far below his usual standards.
Josh Hazlewood dismissed Kohli for just three runs in India’s first innings of the third Test. This was Hazlewood’s 11th dismissal of Kohli in international cricket. The Indian star, who has long been known for his strong off-side play, continues to falter against deliveries wide of the crease.
Mitchell Starc’s fielding brilliance played a crucial role in setting up the dismissal. In the previous delivery, Starc’s athletic effort saved three runs at fine leg, bringing Kohli back on strike. Hazlewood then bowled a full delivery outside off, and Kohli’s attempted drive found the edge. Australia’s celebrations underscored the significance of Starc’s contribution.
Gavaskar Calls for Patience
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar on Kohli didn’t hold back in his analysis. Speaking on Star Sports, he said, “Look at how Jaiswal threw away his wicket. When you have such a tough challenge ahead, you need to be patient. Shubman Gill chased a ball outside off, and so did Virat Kohli, which was unnecessary.”
Gavaskar highlighted Kohli’s need for discipline. Drawing parallels to Sachin Tendulkar’s Sydney knock in 2022-03, he added, “Virat Kohli has to be patient, just like Sachin Tendulkar. Remember Sachin’s 241 in Sydney? He didn’t play shots on the off-side, not even his favorite cover drive. Kohli needs to do exactly that and stop playing towards off.”
A Road to Recovery
For Kohli, the path forward is clear. He needs to curb his aggression, especially early in the innings, and play with a tighter off-side game. Kohli has the skill to adjust his technique and focus on playing straight or towards the leg side. This approach would not only reduce the chances of edging deliveries but also frustrate the bowlers, forcing them to alter their plans.
India’s top order also needs to regroup. With Australia piling up massive first-innings totals, the batters must show patience and intent. As Gavaskar pointed out, “You cannot score 445 in half an hour, or even 245 runs – required to avoid the follow-on – in that time period.”
What's Next for Kohli?
Virat Kohli’s Test average against Australia is at an all-time low. Although he is no stranger to challenges, this series has exposed a glaring weakness in his game. If he takes Gavaskar’s advice and channels Tendulkar’s Sydney approach, he could turn things around. With crucial matches ahead, Kohli’s return to form is critical for India’s chances.
For now, the question remains: Can Virat Kohli adapt and overcome, or will his struggles against Australia continue?
