The former cricketer Atul Wassan has added weight to preparing the test team for a smooth transition, urging the BCCI to plan for Virat Kohli’s succession.
Kohli along with captain Rohit Sharma has faced scrutiny for a lack of performances in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The former pacer said it’s important for India to be prepared for a smooth transition.
Apart from a century in the second innings of the second test, Kohli has managed only 67 runs at an average of 11.16 with a top score of 36.
Notably, he failed to reach double digits and his dismissals frequently arise from his inability to resist playing at deliveries outside the off-stump, highlighting his vulnerabilites in his technique.
“Virat has got runs, but he also knows what’s happening. They are very sorted mentally. A player always thinks that ‘my best is around the corner’. I’ll do it just now.’ It’s such a long spell; it’s hurting the team, and there is questioning, saying you should be dropped. A lynch mob comes after you,” told Wassan.
“They also know what is going on. I think an exit plan, like a succession policy, must be clear. It’s not fair on the management, the team, and the cricketing structure, we don’t know what’s there in your mind,” he added.
Kohli’s dip in form has been evident since 2019, he averaged 54.97 in Tests and was amongst the few players to maintain a 50+ average across all three formats.
His test average has dropped to 31.32. In this period, Virat Kohli has played 38 tets scoring 2005 runs with three centuries and 9 half centuries which is far below than his peak form.
The Boxing day test at Melbourne has added the criticism as Kohli was dismissed in both innings on his outside off-stump weakness. As a result, questions on his adaptability and addressing techinical shortcomings have resurfaced.
Kohli’s career remains one of the most illustrious in cricket history having 81 international centuries in his career. Regaining his form and overcoming his technical flaws would not only extend his legacy but also set an example for aspiring cricketers.
While the BCCI may be considering long-term plans, Kohli’s determination to bounce back will play a crucial role in defining next chapter of his career.
It will be interesting how Kohli’s performance will be during the final match of the BGT 2024-25 which begins on January 03 at Sydney Cricket Ground.
