BGT 2024-25: Brett Lee labels Kohli's Australia performance as "un-Kohli-like"
Xtra Time Web Desk: Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has described Virat Kohli’s struggles during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as "very un-Kohli-like." Speaking on his YouTube channel, Lee credited Australia’s meticulous bowling strategies for Kohli’s disappointing form, which saw him accumulate only 190 runs across five Tests.
Kohli began the series with promise, scoring a century in the second innings of the Perth Test. However, his form nosedived as he repeatedly fell victim to deliveries in the corridor of uncertainty, often edging to the slips or wicketkeeper. Kohli finished the series with an average of 23.75, drawing criticism for failing to adapt his approach against Australia’s disciplined bowling.
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"For me, it was very Un-Kohli-like," Lee remarked. "You obviously get batsmen nick off occasionally, but the thing with Virat Kohli is that he kept getting out the same way throughout the series. After his magnificent hundred in Perth, I thought he was back to his best. But it was slim pickings for him after that."
Australia’s success against Kohli was no accident. Lee acknowledged their thorough preparation, which included a specific plan revealed by seamer Scott Boland. Boland had shared that Australia adjusted their line to the fifth stump once Kohli was settled, targeting his tendency to leave balls early and then play aggressively. This approach proved highly effective.
"I think their preparation was outstanding," Lee added. "Unfortunately for Virat Kohli, he missed out other than that one innings in Perth."
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Despite the poor returns, Lee praised Kohli’s intent, observing that the star batter remained focused and engaged throughout the series. "I don’t think they were mentally unprepared," Lee noted. "Kohli looked like he was applying all those skills that make him such a great batsman. He’s still a great batsman, but unfortunately, he couldn’t get those runs."
India’s batting, led by Kohli and Rohit Sharma, failed to rise to the challenge of Australia’s conditions, resulting in a 1-3 series loss and raising questions about the team’s ability to adapt on challenging tours.
