Virat Kohli's test average dips to eight-year low
PTC Web Desk: Virat Kohli's struggles with form persisted in the first Test against Bangladesh, held in Chennai, as the star Indian batter managed scores of just 6 and 17 in his two innings. In the first innings, Virat Kohli chased a wide delivery from Hasan Mahmud, while in the second, he was given out leg-before-wicket, a decision he chose not to review. Later, the UltraEdge revealed he had made contact with the bat, which would have overturned the decision had he reviewed.
Virat Kohli's performance in 2024 has been underwhelming across all formats. In 15 matches and 17 innings, he has amassed just 319 runs at an average of 18.76, with one half-century and a highest score of 76 in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa.
Currently, Kohli's Test average has dropped to an eight-year low of 48.74 from 114 matches, a figure last seen in November 2016 when his average stood at 48.28. Since the start of 2020, Kohli's form in Test matches has significantly dipped. In 30 Tests played since then, he has scored only 1,669 runs at an average of 32.72, with two centuries and eight half-centuries.
In the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Kohli has had a slightly better run, scoring 392 runs in five matches at an average of 49.00. India will be counting on his experience to perform in the upcoming crucial matches against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia, as they aim for their maiden WTC title.
As for the match, Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field. India’s top order collapsed early, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) and Rishabh Pant (39) providing some stability. The innings was saved by a remarkable 199-run partnership between Ravichandran Ashwin (113) and Ravindra Jadeja (86*), helping India post 376.
Bangladesh struggled in their reply, with key contributions from Shakib Al Hasan (32) and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (27*). Jasprit Bumrah (4/50) and Akash Deep (2/19) led the charge, restricting Bangladesh to a low total. At the end of day three, India led by 308 runs, with Shubman Gill (33*) and Rishabh Pant (12*) at the crease.
- ANI
