Irfan Pathan criticizes Virat Kohli's red-ball struggles

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has voiced his disappointment over Virat Kohli's ongoing struggles in Test cricket, stating that his recent performances fall short of the high standards expected from a player of his stature.  

Speaking during a discussion, Pathan pointed out Kohli's declining form, highlighting his average of around 28 in Test cricket over the past five years. The slump has worsened since October 2023, with Kohli averaging just 21 during this period.  

"It's been five years. You are such a big player, and your average in the last five years has been close to 28. Does Indian cricket deserve this? Absolutely not. They deserve better than this," said Pathan.  

He further added, "An average of 21 since October 2023 is unacceptable. Even a young player would give you those numbers. If your career average is close to 50, these stats are a matter of concern."  

Pathan also analyzed Kohli’s technical shortcomings in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The star batter has been repeatedly dismissed by deliveries outside the off-stump, falling to such balls six times in seven innings during the series.  

"If you look at his dismissals, all the balls were outside the off stumps. If you don't touch them, they would go to the wicketkeeper, and the bowler would have to try something else. Good players ensure there’s a gap between two similar mistakes, but Virat is repeating the same errors. Australia haven’t even moved from Plan A to Plan B," Pathan explained.  

Kohli, who started the series with a century in the first Test in Perth, has since struggled with low scores, registering figures of 7, 11, 3, 36, and 5 in his recent innings.  

The 36-year-old's prolonged lean patch has led to questions about his place in the Indian Test squad. Many believe the selectors may soon look to transition towards younger players to strengthen the team for the future.