Virat Kohli Falls to Boland’s Precision, Struggles Continue
Virat Kohli’s ongoing troubles with deliveries outside off-stump were once again exposed during Day 1 of the final Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The former Indian skipper, battling tough conditions, was out for a modest score. He fell victim to Scott Boland’s trademark accuracy.
Kohli’s inability to handle off-stump deliveries has been a recurring issue in the BGT. This innings was no different. His wicket marked a major setback for India, leaving the team in a vulnerable position.
Boland’s Impeccable Delivery Outsmarts Kohli
The dismissal occurred in the first session. Kohli was batting cautiously on a tough pitch. Boland, known for his perfect lines and lengths, bowled a good-length ball just outside off.
Kohli poked at the delivery with hard hands, resulting in a thick outside edge off the higher part of his blade. The ball flew to the left of third slip. Debutant Beau Webster showed great reflexes to grab a sharp catch.
Kohli’s disappointment was evident as he walked back to the pavilion, head down and visibly upset. His dismissal left India at 72/4, reeling. The lower middle order had to respond.
Kohli’s Persistent Outside-Off Struggles
Kohli’s dismissal mirrored earlier patterns in the series. He consistently fell to deliveries in the off-stump channel. Despite many discussions, he has not found a solution.
A familiar trap? 👀#ViratKohli falls for the 7th time to an outside-off delivery, prompting a sharp reaction from #IrfanPathan! Here’s what he had to say 👆🏻#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 5th Test, Day 1 | LIVE NOW | #BorderGavaskarTrophy #ToughestRivalry pic.twitter.com/2pBnBOrKm0
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 3, 2025
The SCG wicket, offering ample movement and bounce, only compounded Kohli’s woes. His struggles show his poor form. They also add to India’s woes in this high-stakes match.
India’s Top Order Crumbles
Kohli’s wicket came after KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill were out. This left India’s batting lineup in tatters. The Australian bowlers, led by Scott Boland and Pat Cummins, thrived in the tough conditions. They kept India on the back foot all session.
As Day 1’s later stages approach, India’s lower middle order must stabilize the innings. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja must post a competitive total.
Key Highlights:
- Kohli Dismissal: Edged a Boland delivery to third slip. Debutant Beau Webster caught it brilliantly.
- Recurring Issue: Kohli is struggling with off-stump deliveries. He is repeating mistakes from earlier in the series.
- India’s Position: Reeling at 72/4, with the lower middle order under pressure to rebuild.
This dismissal adds to Kohli’s poor run in the series. It also raises questions about his adjustments against Australia’s disciplined bowling. As Day 1 progresses, India’s recovery will determine the match’s course.