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Virat KohliIndia’s top batsman and former captain, has been criticized for his impressive form in Test cricket over the past five years. Despite this, former Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar he remains confident that Kohli can control the situation Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25.
Virat Kohli’s recent struggles in test cricket
Kohli’s performance in the longest format of the game has been in full swing since 2020. In 36 matches, he has scored 1,961 runs at a modest average of 32.14, including three hundreds and fifty. A dip in form has been quite a sight for a player of his age, who once dominated the plate with ease.
The series against New Zealand before the BGT added to the pressure, with Kohli managing just 93 in the three matches. However, his unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the first Test in Perth raised hopes of a comeback. Unfortunately, he failed to perform well in Adelaide, scoring just 7 and 11 in two innings. His removal exposed the near-term problems, especially against the supply that focuses on the outside lane.
Sunil Gavaskar predicts Kohli’s century count at the end of AUS vs IND series
Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports’ Game Planshe highlighted the importance of the upcoming third Test in Brisbane, starting December 14. He indicated that Kohli was about to join the elite group of overseas batsmen, including Gavaskar himself and Sir. Alastair Cookwho have achieved centuries in five major Australian experimental sites.
He added that Kohli’s familiarity with what is happening in Melbourne and Sydney, where he has scored centuries, could bring about a dramatic change. Gavaskar also said that Kohli has a golden opportunity to make history by scoring hundreds in the remaining Tests.
“If he gets a century in Brisbane, it will be good. It’s encouraging, as you know you’ve joined a group of batsmen who have done it. After that, going forward he’ll play in Melbourne and Sydney, where he got centuries. So he can get centuries there too. It means that he may reach four hundred years in the series,” said Gavaskar.
A centenary in Brisbane could serve as a springboard for innovation in Melbourne and Sydney. Notably, Kohli has already logged seven Tests in Australia – three in Adelaide, two in Perth, and one each in Melbourne and Sydney – proving his ability to perform well in Australian conditions.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: 6 players from India to win Gabba in 2021 who will miss 2024 Brisbane Test
Lessons from failure: A path to redemption
Reflecting on Kohli’s partial comeback in Adelaide, Gavaskar compared to Sir Don Bradmanemphasizing that even the best batsmen have matches. “Bradman also has never had a streak where he scored runs in every Test match. You have failed in the odd match. I hope the failure in Adelaide will be paid for in the next three Tests,” the 75-year-old said.
He also maligned Kohli’s struggles against the efficient Australian bowling, especially their persistence up the off-stump line. Gavaskar advised Kohli to adopt a more subtle approach to counter their tactics.
“It’s a bit of a problem that he’s facing around the stumps, which is beaten by everyone, but the line and length of Australia is against him, if he plays a little bit carefully, the runs can score,” Gavaskar finished.
Kohli’s runs in the series so far have ranged from edges to slips by the keeper, showing a recurring theme with his judgment outside the off-stump. Changing his approach could be the key to unlocking a series of big goals in the remaining Tests.
India participated in the Brisbane Test against Australia
With the series tied 1-1, the third Test at the Gabba is crucial for both teams. Following a ten-wicket loss at Adelaide, a Indian team led by Rohit Sharma they will be eager to return. The Gabba, known as Australia’s fort, is a tough one, but Kohli’s form could be the deciding factor. India’s batting line-up, which includes several experienced players, will look to Kohli for inspiration. A century in Brisbane would not only cement Kohli’s status as one of the game’s greats but also boost India’s chances of regaining the lead in the series.
