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.
After a disappointing loss to Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool are reportedly eyeing Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich as a potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, should the current Reds player depart for Real Madrid. With Kimmich having excelled as a defensive midfielder and even taking on the captain's armband, Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the situation and may make a move in the upcoming January transfer window.
In a recent interview, FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal expressed his excitement for the Spanish Super Cup final after scoring a crucial goal in the semifinals against Athletic Club. The 17-year-old had just returned from an ankle injury and was instrumental in securing his team's spot in the final. He also shared his happiness in seeing teammates Dani Olmo and Pau Victor being cleared to play and hopes they will join him in the final against either Real Madrid or RCD Mallorca.
In a thrilling semifinal match against Athletic Club, Barcelona secures its place in the Spanish Super Cup finals. A long pass from Raphinha leads to a chance for Athletic to score, but a timely intervention from goalkeeper Simon denies them. Subscribers of Sportstar can catch the highlights of the intense match at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
Despite Barcelona missing key player Dani Olmo, whose playing license was revoked, young talents Gavi and Yamal stepped up to secure a 2-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals. Olmo was temporarily cleared to play, but unfortunately not in time for the game. Barca's opponent in the final will be determined in the match between Real Madrid and Mallorca, with the outcome being held in Saudi Arabia. Barca coach Hansi Flick expressed his joy over the decision to allow Olmo and Pau Victor to play again, and the players were also thrilled to contribute to the win and reach the final.
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Young superstars Gavi and Lamine Yamal put on a show in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as they scored a goal each to secure a 2-0 victory for Barcelona against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal. The team was unable to field Spanish playmaker Dani Olmo and Pau Victor due to delayed clearance, but it did not stop the young guns from shining on the field. This win takes Barcelona one step closer to lifting the trophy and adds to their impressive run of form under new manager Xavi Hernandez.
As the transfer window opens, Premier League clubs are already hard at work securing new signings and making major changes. Manchester United is looking to offload players and bring in fresh talent with Ruben Amorim leading the way. Meanwhile, Liverpool is fighting to keep key players as their contracts near expiration. Across the league, teams like Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also looking to bolster their squads for a strong second half of the season. Stay updated with all the latest news and rumors throughout the day.
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