Aakash Chopra Analyzes Virat Kohli’s Decline in Test Cricket
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has shed light on Virat Kohli’s noticeable decline in Test cricket over the past five years. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra detailed how Kohli’s batting average has plummeted to just 30.72, a stark contrast to his illustrious past, where he was once seen as the backbone of the Indian batting lineup.
The Statistical Breakdown
Kohli has accumulated 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an impressive average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. However, Chopra’s focus on the last five years reveals concerning statistics:
- 2020: Averaged 19.33 in three Tests.
- 2021: 28.21 average across 11 Tests, with no centuries.
- 2022: 26.50 average in six Tests, again without any hundreds.
- 2023: A slight recovery with an average of 55.91 in eight Tests, scoring two centuries.
- 2024: A sharp decline to 24.52 in ten Tests, with one century in Perth.
Chopra also pointed out that Kohli’s struggles have been evident in high-pressure games, including the World Test Championship finals, where his performances fell short.
Selectors’ Dilemma
With an aging squad and a missed opportunity at the World Test Championship, Chopra emphasized the urgency for selectors to evaluate Kohli’s role in the team. “The selectors must decide now,” he asserted, urging a strategic shift towards younger talent.
ODI and IPL Success
Despite his Test struggles, Kohli remains a formidable force in ODIs and the IPL, being the highest run-scorer in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the Orange Cap winner in IPL 2024. This duality raises questions about his future in Test cricket.
In conclusion, while the selectors face a challenging decision regarding Kohli’s future, they must prioritize the team’s growth and potential over sentimentality.
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