Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli’s woes in the longest format persisted as he was dismissed cheaply on Day 1 of the first Test between Australia and India at Optus Stadium, Perth. The Indian team, led by stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah, opted to bat first after winning the toss. However, Kohli’s stay at the crease lasted only five runs, reflecting his ongoing struggle in red-ball cricket.

A testing start for India

India’s innings started on a rocky note as Australian pacers dominated the early exchanges. With two wickets falling for just 14 runs, Kohli was called into action earlier than expected. Adopting a strategy often seen in England, Kohli took his stance six inches outside the crease to counter Josh Hazlewood’s movement.

His intent was clear—negate the swing and force the bowlers to adjust their length. But the strategy proved less effective on a Perth pitch that offered bounce and lateral movement as the day progressed.

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Josh Hazlewood’s tactical brilliance to dismiss Virat Kohli

Hazlewood, operating from the pavilion end after a quiet start, began exploiting the pitch’s increasing bounce. Before delivering the decisive ball, he orchestrated a subtle field change, signaling Mitch Marsh to position closer to short midwicket—a move that unfolded right in Kohli’s line of sight.

The next delivery, a back-of-length brute outside off, bounced sharply, unsettling Kohli. Caught between pressing forward and retreating, Kohli lost balance and failed to withdraw his bat in time. The ball nicked his bat and flew to Usman Khawaja at first slip, ending Kohli’s innings.

Kohli’s visible frustration as he walked off the field underscored the challenge posed by Hazlewood’s delivery, which left even the Indian superstar struggling to cope. His wicket marked a pivotal moment in the day’s play, giving Australia early momentum. Hazlewood’s strategic brilliance and execution highlighted why he remains one of the most formidable bowlers in world cricket.

Here is the video:

Extra bounce from Hazlewood – Kohli’s back in the sheds for five #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6M5DjgOqrV

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024

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