Virat KohliThe cricketing journey has had its ups and downs, but his recent performances, especially in the ongoing game. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25raised an eyebrow. The latest headline occurred during the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where Kohli's constant struggle with off-stump delivery came back to haunt him. Like Scott Boland delivered a trademark ball that exposed Kohli's weaknesses, fans were left wondering if this was a case of déjà vu or a serious problem plaguing modern-day cricketers.
Scott Boland looks to be the legend of Virat Kohli on Day 1
Kohli's dismissal for just 17 runs was reminiscent of previous failures throughout the series. Although they went into the match with high hopes of scoring big goals, they fell to Boland's side who played the ball well. The Australia The pacer headed for the wicket outside the off stump, prompting Kohli to push it on the track which just skipped a bit. The result was an edge that was caught very skillfully by the starter It's Webster at slip, I also record another time when Kohli's technique failed him.
This dismissal was especially painful for Kohli, not only because it reflected previous failures but also because of the opportunities that were already missing in his innings. He survived a golden duck as he picked up a load from Boland who controversially refused to come off after the match showed he touched the ground before being caught. However, fortune did not favor him for long, as he soon lost to Boland.
Also WATCH: Shubman Gill exchanges words with Steve Smith before his exit on Day 1 of the Sydney Test
Here is the video:
Virat Kohli's wicket. 😞#INDvsAUS #AUSWIN #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/mqCMNWMdA3
— Tanveer (@tanveermamdani) January 3, 2025
The weight of expectations on Kohli
The SCG test was not just another match; it represented a difficult time for Kohli and the Indian team. With India struggling at 72/4 after losing key players like KL Rahul and Shubman GillKohli's role as a top batsman became more important. His inability to convert starts into big goals has been a recurring theme, and this latest failure adds to the pressure that is building on him.
Kohli's struggles against off-stump deliveries have been well-documented, and this is the 22nd time in recent years that he has been subjected to similar deliveries from fast bowlers. The consistency with which he was removed in this way raises questions about his adaptability and willingness to overcome the visible problem in his game.
As Kohli continues to face these challenges, the Indian team must come together to support their star. It is the central system that needs to rise in difficult conditions, the players like it Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja they tried to stabilize the innings but India eventually scored 185.