Virat Kohli’s Struggles Outside Off-Stump: A Growing Concern
In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Virat Kohli has found himself repeatedly dismissed fishing outside the off-stump, raising alarms among fans and experts alike. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar voiced his concerns over Kohli’s vulnerability against deliveries outside off, noting that this issue has become increasingly prevalent across various lengths, making him a prime target for bowlers.
Consistent Dismissals
Out of the eight innings in the series, Kohli has been dismissed seven times while attempting to play shots outside the off-stump, all resulting in catches behind the wicket. His only score of note came in the series opener in Perth, where he scored a solid 100 not out. However, his recent dismissal by Scott Boland in Sydney, where he managed just 17 runs off 68 balls, highlighted the persistent struggles he faces.
Expert Analysis
Manjrekar pointed out that Kohli’s current woes with deliveries outside off-stump have reached a critical point. “His biggest strength when he entered international cricket was his cover drive, but now that has turned into a significant weakness,” he stated. Manjrekar elaborated that the problem has evolved such that any bowler can exploit this weakness by simply targeting that channel. “Whether it’s a full or short delivery, Kohli is still getting out to balls in that area,” he added.
Current Performance
Kohli’s performance in the series has been underwhelming, accumulating just 184 runs at an average of 26.28 over eight outings. As India struggled, being bowled out for 185 on the opening day of the final Test, the pressure on Kohli to regain his form continues to mount.
For fans looking to stay updated on the latest sports news and insights, don’t forget to check out Looffers.com for great deals and promotions!
