BGT 2024-25: Kohli frustrated! Off-side struggle continues to haunt him!
Xtra Time Web Desk: Virat Kohli’s struggles with deliveries outside off stump continued on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, as he fell cheaply to Scott Boland yet again on Saturday, January 4. The Indian star batter was caught at slips while attempting to play a delivery outside off, handing Boland his fourth dismissal of Kohli in the series.
Kohli’s early departure came at a crucial moment in the game. Stepping in as the acting captain after Jasprit Bumrah left the field for scans due to a back issue, Kohli led India’s fightback by orchestrating Australia’s collapse from 162/6 to 181 all out. India gained a narrow 4-run lead before tea, thanks to their bowling efforts.
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In the second innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal provided India with a strong start, but Boland’s fiery spell dismissed both openers, forcing Kohli to partner Shubman Gill in the middle. Despite showing initial stability, Kohli’s struggles outside off persisted as he edged one to slips, scoring just 6 runs off 12 balls.
The series has been far from ideal for Kohli, who has often looked vulnerable outside the off stump. He was dismissed in a similar manner in the first innings, scoring 17 off 69 balls before edging to slips off Boland’s bowling.
Kohli’s performance in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a sharp contrast to his past dominance in Australia. He began the series on a high note, scoring a brilliant century in the second innings of the Perth Test, which helped India secure a win. However, his form dipped significantly afterward.
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The star batter’s next-best score in the series was 36 during the Boxing Day Test, and he managed to cross double digits only three times in nine innings. Kohli wrapped up the series with 190 runs at an average of 23.75—well below his usual standards.
As India now looks to regroup for the final Test, Kohli’s form will remain a talking point, with fans hoping the veteran can bounce back to his best in the upcoming fixtures.
