Australia has historically been Kohli’s playground, a land where he thrived on bouncy tracks and charged atmospheres
06 January, 2025
PHOTO: AFP
Virat Kohli, a name synonymous with grit, passion, and unparalleled skill, faced one of the toughest Test series of his illustrious career during India’s recent tour of Australia. In nine innings, Kohli managed just 190 runs, with a lone century propping up his average to a modest 23.75. For a player of his stature, whose batting once defined consistency, these numbers have raised eyebrows and sparked conversations about his future in Test cricket.
Australia has historically been Kohli’s playground, a land where he thrived on bouncy tracks and charged atmospheres. From his exploits in 2014-15 to his dominance in 2018-19, Kohli’s Australian tours have been a masterclass in handling pace and pressure. However, this series painted a starkly different picture. His dismissals followed a predictable pattern, with Australian bowlers exploiting his tendency to chase deliveries outside the off-stump. Scott Boland, summing up the strategy, revealed, “Once he’s set, we move the line to the fifth stump, and he starts feeling for it.”
The frustration was evident in Kohli’s body language. Known for his fiery persona and in-your-face aggression, he seemed to revert to his old ways, attempting to reignite the spark that once fueled his greatness. But the confrontations and emotional outbursts didn’t yield the desired results, leaving fans and analysts pondering if Kohli is at a crossroads in his Test career.
Former cricketers have weighed in on Kohli’s predicament. Some believe he may take one final shot at England, a place where his batting has seen highs and lows. "If he succeeds there, it could extend his Test career, much like Tendulkar's resurgence after South Africa," remarked an analyst. Others suggest he might quietly step away from Test cricket after this phase, focusing on limited-overs formats where his fitness and energy remain assets.
Kohli’s struggles reflect a larger issue within the Indian batting unit, which faltered collectively in the series. Yet, for Kohli, the pressure is personal. As a player who thrives on challenges, his inability to counter the Australian bowlers’ plans will undoubtedly irk him. “He’s always found ways to counter challenges, but that didn’t happen this series,” one commentator observed.
With India’s cricketing calendar packed, including the upcoming England ODI series, Champions Trophy, and the IPL, there’s little time to dwell on the past. But Kohli, known for his introspection, will likely take time to reassess his approach. The decision on his future in Tests may hinge on both his personal reflections and the direction the selectors envision for Indian cricket.
For now, Kohli remains a towering figure in world cricket, but this series in Australia will serve as a reminder that even the greatest face moments of vulnerability. Whether this marks the twilight of his Test career or the dawn of another comeback, only time will tell.
