Virat Kohli, one of the most prolific and admired batsmen in modern cricket, has ended 2024 with a Test batting average of 47.21, which is his lowest in the past five years. This decline has prompted discussions about his form and future in the format, despite his undeniable legacy in world cricket. Known for his consistency and aggressive style, Kohli has been a cornerstone of India’s batting line-up for over a decade. However, 2024 has proven to be a challenging year, with Kohli struggling to maintain his usual high standards in red-ball cricket.
Over the year, Kohli faced difficulties with deliveries outside the off-stump and struggled against left-arm spinners, which significantly impacted his ability to convert starts into big scores. His performances in key series, particularly against strong opposition in tough conditions, revealed vulnerabilities that had been less evident in the past. With his average dipping below 50, a mark he has comfortably surpassed for most of his career, questions have arisen about his place in India’s future Test plans.
This performance drop has led to increasing scrutiny from analysts and cricket pundits. Some have raised concerns about his age and the physical demands of Test cricket, suggesting that Kohli might be reaching the twilight of his career in the longer format. Despite these discussions, Kohli remains one of the most influential cricketers globally, and his value to the team is undeniable, both in terms of leadership and experience.
However, Virat Kohli showed signs of his vintage form during the year, notably with a century against Australia in Perth, which demonstrated that he still has the ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. This innings was a reminder that despite the challenges of 2024, Kohli’s skill, determination, and mental toughness are still key assets for India in Test cricket.
Looking ahead, Virat Kohli’s future in the format will likely depend on how he responds to the evolving demands of international cricket. The upcoming series will be crucial for Kohli, as he looks to reclaim his consistency and potentially silence critics who are questioning his place in the team. While his 2024 performance has been below expectations, Virat Kohli’s legacy remains solid, and he still has the potential to continue contributing at the highest level.