Once in formidable shape, Virat Kohli’s form has gradually slithered into a deep slumber.
Trusting Kohli’s aggressive intent, the Indian selectors have been giving Kohli a chance in every other game across formats. However, the ex-captain can’t seem to find his mojo back. Since 2019, when he last scored an international century the batter has struggled on the crease.
The most-feared cricketer’s poor performance first paved the way for undue support, then concern, and now criticism. Today, the clamour is around his place in the India Playing XI.
From Kapil Dev to Michael Vaughan, former cricketers, and analysts who had earlier showered praise on his daunting form, have expressed their doubts about Virat Kohli.
They are now asking the 33-year-old to either take a break or change his approach!
Kapil Dev:
The World Cup-winning captain, who once hailed Virat Kohli for ‘taking the game to the next level', is the first to openly question his place in Team India.
Comparing him with R Ashwin, the Kapil Dev captain questioned, 'If world no. 2 bowler R Ashwin can be dropped from Tests, then why can't the world no. 1 batter be dropped?'
Former India batter Ajay Jadeja also reiterated Kapil Dev’s opinion and said, 'If I had to pick a T20 side, Kohli would not be there'
Michael Vaughan
Former England skipper Michael Vaughan feels that an 'overburdened' Virat Kohli needs some time off from cricket to bounce back into shape.
Vaughan had earlier thanked Kohli for making Test cricket his priority.
‘I think we’ve all got to say thank you, Virat Kohli. He loves Test cricket; he has made it a priority’, Vaughan had said earlier.
Virender Sehwag
Known for calling a spade a spade, Virender Sehwag once drew a likeness between Virat Kohli and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
‘When it’s Virat Kohli’s day, he ensures he finishes the match and is right there till the end, irrespective of the format he is batting in. That’s exactly what Tendulkar used to do!’
The ex-cricketer, however, has now made some sneering remarks on Virat Kohli’s extended bad patch.
'Do you remember the last time, Kohli scored a 100? Even I don't remember,' commented Sehwag.