Despite being the poster boy of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli continues to struggle with his batting form during the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With his recent dismissal off an outside-off delivery, Kohli has now recorded the second-lowest average in Test cricket among mainstream batters since 2024. In contrast, the top three spots in this list are occupied by bowlers, raising questions about Kohli's technique and form.
Virat Kohli's Batting Struggles and the Rise of Bowlers in Test Cricket
Despite being hailed as one of the greatest modern-day batsmen, Virat Kohli has faced an unprecedented slump in form in recent times. This has become particularly evident during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where the Indian skipper has failed to deliver substantial scores.
Kohli's Declining Performance
Kohli's batting woes have been evident for some time now. Since 2020, his Test average has dropped from a lofty 59.34 to a paltry 24.65. In the current series, the 34-year-old has managed just 124 runs in five innings, with a highest score of 44. Notably, Kohli's struggles have been magnified against left-arm fast bowlers, who have consistently dismissed him with deliveries outside off stump.
Rise of Bowlers in Test Cricket
While Kohli's form has declined, a new trend has emerged in Test cricket: the rise of bowlers. Statistical analysis reveals that bowlers have claimed the top three spots in the list of players with the lowest batting averages since 2024. This unprecedented dominance by bowlers suggests a shift in the balance of power between bat and ball.
Factors Contributing to the Trend
Several factors have contributed to the rise of bowlers in Test cricket:
FAQs
1. What are the reasons for Kohli's batting slump?
2. Who are the bowlers who have dominated Test cricket in recent times?
3. What can Kohli do to improve his form?
4. Will Kohli ever regain his previous form?
It is difficult to predict whether Kohli will regain his previous form. Time and effort will be needed to address his technical and mental challenges. However, his determination and past achievements suggest that he has the potential to bounce back.
5. Will bowlers continue to dominate Test cricket?
The rise of bowlers in Test cricket is a complex trend influenced by several factors. It is possible that bowlers will continue to play a significant role in determining the outcome of matches. However, batters who can adapt to the changing conditions and exploit bowlers' weaknesses can still succeed in the longer format.
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