As India prepares for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Virat Kohli can reclaim his form on some of the challenging pitches in Australia. Kohli, who has an illustrious record against the Aussies, faces scrutiny as the 2024 season has not been his best, averaging a mere 22 across 12 innings.
Kohli’s cricketing journey has been marked by several defining moments against Australia. With 1352 runs in 25 innings at an average of 54, his performance Down Under is nothing short of legendary. His maiden Test century in Adelaide in 2012, his captaincy debut series in 2015 with back-to-back centuries, and his gritty 169 in 2014, showcase his prowess on Australian soil. Kohli’s record against Australia includes six centuries and four half-centuries, making him a centerpiece for India in this series.
The backdrop to the series is less than ideal for Kohli. Following a disappointing 0-3 series defeat at home against New Zealand, there’s been significant criticism regarding his form with many calling him to be dropped from the side if runs don’t come. However, Kohli’s history suggests that pressure, and especially Australia, often brings out the best in him. His ability to thrive under pressure could be the key ingredient India need as they face a lethal Australian bowling lineup led by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon.
The dynamics of Kohli’s interactions with Australia are well documented. Known for his combative spirit, Kohli has often used the Australian aggression as fuel to his batting fire. This series could reignite that fire. His comments in a video by Star Sports reveal his deep understanding and respect for the competitive nature of the Australian team, which he believes elevates his game.
“I think that mindset is very clear to me. That they are such a competitive team that 11 people on one page and everyone knows what’s going on in the game and even if they get an inch of it, then they will try to capitalise,” Kohli said.
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“So my motivation increases more against this team who have been aware enough, present at all times. Their skill-set is high and also so competitive that I’ll need to elevate myself to defeat them. Otherwise, the motivation, the drive and the awareness that they have, they won’t even give you a chance to come back into the game.”
The series opener in Perth adds another layer of intrigue. Perth has been a ground where Kohli has previously shone with a century, and starting there might just set the tone for his redemption arc. The conditions in Perth demand resilience and technique; qualities that Kohli has in abundance. But he needs to harness it effectively this time around.
In 2018, India experienced an early setback at the beginning of their innings in Perth, with their top three batsmen dismissed for only 83 runs. However, Virat Kohli rose to the occasion, shouldering the responsibility of stabilising the innings, showcasing his prowess and leadership by scoring a crucial 123 runs, which was instrumental in pushing India’s total to 283. This effort not only kept India competitive but also highlighted Kohli’s ability to perform under pressure. As the first Test of the upcoming series against Australia is set in Perth, there’s an anticipation that Kohli, known for his past heroics on this ground, will find his rhythm again in those conditions.
With doubts about his form, Kohli has an opportunity to silence his detractors. The narrative around him has shifted from being India’s dependable run-machine to a player possibly past his prime. Yet, history shows that Kohli relishes proving skeptics wrong. His motivation to reclaim his standing could very well be the catalyst for a significant performance turnaround.
Kohli’s form might be a topic of concern, but his legacy in Australia speaks volumes about his capability. The Australian series offers Kohli not just a chance to find his form but to add another chapter to his storied cricket career. As India looks to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli’s bat could indeed be the loudest voice, not just in response to the Australian bowlers but also to the whispers questioning his current form. If there’s one certainty in cricket, it’s when Kohli decides to make a statement, he often does so with the eloquence of his willow.
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