Here is Virat Kohli’s roadmap for a victorious return against Australia in BGT 2024-25

Nov 5, 2024

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Virat Kohli

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against Australia could mark a defining moment for Virat Kohli, whose career has been iconic due to his achievements and contributions to Indian cricket. However, Kohli now finds himself under significant scrutiny after experiencing extended lean phases, particularly in Test cricket. His recent struggles against spin and inconsistencies with the bat have raised questions about his long-term future in the format, especially as younger talents emerge.

Virat Kohli’s struggle in the recent Test series

Kohli’s Test form has been especially concerning, with only two centuries in the past five years and a modest average of 22.72 in 2024. In the recent series against New Zealand and Bangladesh, his struggles were evident as he managed only 192 runs across five Tests, averaging just 21.33. Despite his current dip in form, Kohli’s career has been marked by resilience and the ability to stage comebacks. While his fitness and mental fortitude remain assets, the upcoming series will be a critical test of Kohli’s adaptability and technique, particularly against a challenging Australian bowling attack.

Stakes for India and Kohli in World Test Championship (WTC) qualification

The stakes in this series are extraordinarily high, not only for India’s World Test Championship (WTC) aspirations but also for Kohli’s place in the Test setup. Following a 0-3 series loss to New Zealand, India’s direct qualification hopes for the WTC final are at risk. To stay in contention, India needs an almost improbable 4-0 series win against Australia, which puts added pressure on Kohli to perform. Strong performances could help reaffirm his role as a pillar in the Test lineup; Nevertheless, further struggles might prompt selectors to consider alternatives for the next WTC cycle.

Kohli’s notable comebacks on Australia soil from lean patches

Throughout his 16-year career, Kohli has repeatedly shown his ability to overcome slumps. His first notable resurgence was during the 2011-12 BGT in Australia, where, after a difficult start, he emerged as India’s top scorer, including a gritty 116 in Adelaide. Following a poor England tour in 2014, Kohli bounced back in the 2014-15 BGT with 692 runs, including four centuries. He also ended a prolonged century drought in the 2022 Asia Cup with a T20I hundred against Afghanistan.

In the 2023 BGT, Kohli demonstrated his resilience once again, scoring a crucial 186 in Ahmedabad to help India secure a 2-1 series victory and qualify for the WTC final. As India prepares for the high-stakes 2024-25 BGT Kohli’s track record of comebacks provides hope, even as the pressure mounts on him to deliver once more on the biggest stage.

Also READ: Has Virat Kohli past his prime? Examining his Test struggles since 2020

How Virat Kohli can regain his peak form in the BGT 2024-25 showdown against Australia?

For Kohli to stage a comeback against Australia in Australia, a strong, strategic approach will be essential, especially given the five-match series format and the unique challenges of each venue. Here’s how Kohli can maximize his performance across the venues:

1. Adapting to Australian Conditions and Enhancing Technique

Bouncing Back Against Pace and Spin: Kohli’s form against both pace and spin has come under scrutiny, and Australia’s diverse bowling attack will test his abilities. By focusing on footwork and refining his technique, particularly against the extra bounce and movement in Australian pitches, Kohli can regain his rhythm.
Countering Short Balls: Australia’s pacers, especially at venues like Perth and the Gabba, are known for exploiting bounce and using short-pitched deliveries effectively. Kohli’s stance adjustment and balance when facing short balls could be crucial.
Mastering the Off-Stump Line: Bowlers will look to exploit his off-stump weaknesses, and Kohli needs to leave deliveries wisely outside off, especially on bouncy tracks. By working on patience and shot selection, he can control his tendency to chase wide balls.

2. Venue-Specific Strategy for Each Test Match

First Test – Perth (Optus Stadium)

Challenge: Known for its bounce and pace, Perth will test Kohli’s reflexes and his ability to play short-pitched balls.
Approach: Kohli should focus on balance and back-foot play. Using the depth of the crease can help him manage the bounce better, while rotating strike early can prevent him from being pinned down by the pacers.
Impact on Series: A strong start in Perth would boost Kohli’s confidence and signal his readiness to handle Australian conditions.

Second Test – Adelaide (Pink Ball, Day-Night)

Challenge: The pink ball under lights often favors swing and movement, especially against Australia’s pink-ball specialists like Mitchell Starc.
Approach: Kohli needs to be extra cautious in the twilight session, when the pink ball tends to move more. Playing close to the body and focusing on survival during tougher periods will be key.
Impact on Series: Scoring runs in the pink-ball Test could set the tone for Kohli’s series, as success against the pink ball would prove his adaptability.

Third Test – Brisbane (Gabba)

Challenge: The Gabba offers sharp bounce and pace, traditionally a fortress for Australian cricket.
Approach: Kohli’s proactive play style can work to his advantage here, as rotating the strike and capitalizing on scoring opportunities will keep him ahead of the bowlers. Handling the steep bounce with a steady back-foot technique will be crucial.
Impact on Series: A strong showing in Brisbane would allow Kohli to maintain momentum through the midpoint of the series.

Fourth Test – Melbourne (MCG)

Challenge: The MCG offers a balanced pitch with something for both batters and bowlers, and patience will be key on this surface.
Approach: Kohli’s game plan here should focus on occupying the crease and building partnerships. Targeting tired bowlers and waiting for loose deliveries could allow him to build a big score.
Impact on Series: A potential match-winning performance in Melbourne could tilt the series balance in India’s favor, especially if the series is close.

Fifth Test – Sydney (SCG)

Challenge: The SCG is the most spin-friendly of the Australian grounds, with assistance for both pace and spin later in the game.
Approach: Kohli will need to be tactically sound against spin here. By playing the spin with soft hands and making use of his wristy play, he can mitigate risks while also dominating loose deliveries.
Impact on Series: A strong performance in Sydney would allow Kohli to finish the series on a high note, which could be crucial for India’s World Test Championship aspirations.

3. Mindset and Tactical Adjustments

Mental Preparation: Kohli’s mental resilience has often defined his comebacks. By focusing on a series-long approach and breaking down his goals by innings, he can maintain his confidence and avoid dwelling on past struggles.
Batting Partnerships: Kohli thrives when building partnerships, which will also alleviate the pressure on him. Establishing steady partnerships with India’s middle-order can keep the scoreboard ticking and keep Australian bowlers at bay.
Fitness and Endurance: Given the demands of a five-Test series, Kohli’s peak fitness will be an asset. His ability to sustain focus over long innings and multiple sessions can be a game-changer.

4. Drawing Inspiration from Past Comebacks

Kohli has successfully staged comebacks before, including during the 2011-12 and 2014-15 series in Australia. By revisiting those performances and channeling that resilience, he can reignite his Test form. This series provides the ideal setting for Kohli to reassert his dominance, with his experience and adaptability being vital assets for India.