BGT 2024-25: Is Virat Kohli's Test career over? 3 key reasons behind India's decision to drop him
Xtra Time Web Desk: Virat Kohli's struggles in Test cricket have been evident for some time now, with the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy match highlighting his continued slump. After Australia posted a competitive 337 in their first innings, India’s response was shaky, losing key wickets early. Kohli, expected to anchor the innings, could not live up to the expectations, falling for just eleven runs to Scott Boland.
Virat Kohli’s Recent Test Struggles
Kohli’s performance in recent Test matches has been underwhelming. In his last 14 innings, he has accumulated only 315 runs at a modest average of 26.25. This inconsistency has raised doubts about his place in the team, especially when his runs are becoming increasingly sparse. If he fails to turn things around during the remainder of the series, the calls for his exclusion will only grow louder.
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Technical Flaws and Persistent Dismissals
One of the major reasons for Kohli's ongoing struggles is his inability to deal with deliveries around the fourth stump line. Pacers have repeatedly exploited this weakness, with Kohli often getting dismissed in the corridor of uncertainty. This technical flaw has made him a liability at the crease, as he continues to be dismissed in the same manner. His lack of confidence and repetitive mode of dismissals raises the question of whether it’s time for India to move forward without him in the Test squad.
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Preparing for the Future
With the World Test Championship cycle set to end in June and the final scheduled for Lord’s, India faces an important juncture. The ongoing series against Australia will likely be India’s final series before the WTC final. Regardless of India’s qualification, the focus must shift to the future, and that includes planning for the next cycle. Kohli, nearing the twilight of his career, must either rediscover his form or be shown the exit door if he continues to struggle in the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024.
In conclusion, Kohli’s rough patch in Test cricket is becoming hard to ignore. If he cannot overcome his technical shortcomings and provide consistent performances, it may be time for India to start preparing for the next generation of players.
