Virat Kohli didn’t have a great series with the bat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-25. The 36-year-old batter was clearly not at his best and his weakness outside off stump was clearly exposed by the world-class Australian attack.
The series could well be Kohli’s last tour of Australia given the stage of his career. With the form not on his side at the moment, Kohli is under huge pressure to take the big decision. Australia captain Pat Cummins was asked about Kohli’s retirement after the match.
Cummins claimed that he will be disappointed if this is Kohli’s last tour down under. He also shed light on Virat Kohli’s theatrics and aggressive intent that makes him such a tough competitor.
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Pat Cummins opens up on Virat Kohli’s last possible Test series in Australia
According to Pat Cummins, Virat Kohli’s aggression and on-field theatrics bring life to a game. He wants to get into the opposition’s head in order to win the match for his country.
“It’s always been a wonderful contest. More than just the runs that he scored, he brings a bit of theatre to the game which is sometimes good and sometimes it can rile you up as an opposition, which I’m sure is part of his plans,” Cummins was quoted as saying by PTI.
The Australia skipper further revealed that he will be sad if this turns out to be Kohli’s last tour to Australia and wants him to continue playing for now.
“Really enjoyed playing with him. You know, he’s been one of the star batters for the last decade or so. You know, if you get his wicket it goes a long way to winning a game so yeah, it will be sad if it’s his last series.” he added.
Virat Kohli in BGT 2024-25
Virat Kohli is not only known for his outstanding batting skills but for his antics on the field as well. He is aggressive on the field and tries to get into the head of the opposition in his own way.
But Kohli scored just 190 runs in the whole series at a miserable average of 23.75. It has started the speculation about his retirement. India won’t play any Test match for a while now and Kohli has the time to think about this decision.
India will play the Champions Trophy next where Virat Kohli will be amongst the big batters of the tournament. The team management will expect the talismanic batter to return to form. Kohli has already retired from T20Is last year.
Virat Kohli’s constant struggles
The next Test series in Australia is a long time away now and it seems difficult for Virat Kohli to make it to that point. While he is fit enough, his form has been a huge concern for his team.
Kohli’s constant struggles outside off stump has been a huge problem for him and the team. After scoring a century in Perth, he was put under severe pressure by the Australian bowlers. With the England tour next year, Kohli will be looking to prove a point.