Kohli Falls Early in Intra-Squad Match Before First Test
Virat Kohli’s rough patch continued in a practice match. They dismissed him for a low price ahead of India’s Test series against Australia. Mukesh Kumar caught Kohli in the slips. He made little impact, raising concerns about his form ahead of the first Test in Perth on November 22.
Recent Struggles Impacting India’s Prospects
Kohli’s recent performances have raised alarms for the Indian side. In his last six innings against New Zealand, he managed only 93 runs, contributing to India’s 0-3 series loss at home. In the past five years, the 36-year-old has made just three Test centuries. This is a far cry from his earlier consistency. Kohli has scored over 1,300 Test runs in Australia. But his recent form raises doubts about his ability to anchor India’s batting in this series.
| Statistic | Recent Performance |
| Runs in Last 6 Innings | 93 |
| Test Centuries Since 2018 | 3 |
| Career Runs in Australia | Over 1,300 |
India’s High Stakes in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
The stakes are high for India in this Border-Gavaskar series. To secure a place in the World Test Championship final, India must win the series 4-0. Kohli’s form is key to India’s success. They seek a third straight Test series win in Australia. Team management is banking on Kohli to overcome his recent struggles and bat well.
Mode of Dismissals Raises Concerns
Kohli’s recent dismissals have worried fans and former players. People know Kohli for his perfect technique. But, he is vulnerable to deliveries outside the off-stump. He has struggled with this weakness in recent years. In the New Zealand series, he was even bowled on a full toss. That rare dismissal showed his struggles. If Kohli is to return to form, he’ll need to address these technical issues quickly.
Ricky Ponting Remains Optimistic
Ricky Ponting believes Kohli can find his rhythm on Australia’s fast, bouncy pitches, despite his poor form. Ponting believes Kohli’s skill could help against Australia’s fast bowlers, led by Cummins. Indian fans and the team’s management hope Ponting’s prediction comes true. Kohli’s return to form could be the key to a historic series victory.
