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Xtra Time Web Desk: As the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off in Perth this Friday 22nd November, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri has called for Virat Kohli to rediscover his fiery and combative self to regain his dominant form in Test cricket. Shastri believes Kohli's trademark aggression could be the key to reversing his recent struggles with the bat.  

Kohli, once celebrated as a prolific run-scorer, has endured a prolonged slump in Test cricket. Since 2020, the 36-year-old has averaged just 32, with only two centuries in his last 60 Test innings. His form in 2024 has been particularly concerning, as he has averaged a modest 22.72 across six matches, managing just one half-century in his last 10 innings.  

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Shastri, who famously guided India to a historic 2-1 series win in Australia during the 2020-21 tour, remains confident in Kohli's abilities. However, he emphasized the need for Kohli to embrace the antagonist role that made him a thorn in Australia's side earlier in his career.  

"You mellow with age, don't you? But I think at the start of this series, you might see Kohli firing again. He needs to be," Shastri said during a press interaction on Tuesday. "In the face—that's Kohli. Come Australia, he'll get his juices flowing. It's all about how he starts. If he fires in the first two or three innings, he can dominate the series."  

Shastri also drew parallels between Kohli and Steve Smith, highlighting that both stalwarts have the potential to turn the tide of the series if they find form early.  

Despite his recent dip, Kohli has a stellar track record against Australia in high-stakes encounters. Shastri dismissed notions of Kohli being past his prime, expressing faith in the Indian batter's ability to thrive under pressure.

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The former coach also weighed in on India's preparation for the series, supporting the decision to opt for an intrasquad warm-up game in Perth instead of a practice match against an organized opponent. "It's always about how strong the opposition will be—that's the first question when planning a tour game," Shastri explained.  

The series opener promises to be a gripping contest, with Kohli under the spotlight as India seeks to make a strong start in their bid to retain the coveted trophy.