Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has weighed in on Virat Kohli’s recent struggles with the bat, suggesting that the Indian maestro might be putting undue pressure on himself, which is impacting his performances. Ponting, known for his insightful commentary on the game, believes that Kohli’s relentless drive for success might ironically be the reason for his current slump.
Speaking on Kohli’s form, Ponting remarked, “Virat Kohli is one of the best players of this generation, no question about it. But right now, it seems like he’s trying too hard, and that’s one of the reasons success is eluding him.” These comments come at a time when Kohli has been unable to deliver the consistent big scores that have defined his illustrious career.
Kohli’s struggles have been evident across formats. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, including some crucial half-centuries, the centuries that once flowed effortlessly from his bat have been conspicuously absent. This lean patch has not only sparked debates among fans and experts but also raised questions about the mental toll the game is taking on one of cricket’s most celebrated figures.
Ponting, a veteran of many such phases during his own career, empathized with Kohli’s situation. “I’ve been there. When you’re so determined to succeed, you can sometimes overthink and overdo things. It’s not about skill; Virat has all the talent in the world. It’s about letting go and playing with freedom,” Ponting explained.
Kohli’s intense approach to the game is well-documented. From his rigorous fitness regime to his meticulous preparation, he leaves no stone unturned in his quest for excellence. However, Ponting’s observations suggest that this very intensity might be counterproductive at times, especially when results don’t go his way.
In the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli managed to score a few important runs but was unable to produce the match-defining innings fans have come to expect from him. His dismissals often came from uncharacteristic lapses in concentration or overly aggressive strokes, hinting at a player perhaps trying too hard to dominate.
Ponting believes that a mental reset could be the key to unlocking Kohli’s full potential once again. “Sometimes, you just need to step back and remind yourself why you love the game. When you’re not overburdened by expectations—whether your own or others’—that’s when the magic happens,” he added.
Kohli’s situation isn’t unique in the cricketing world. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar and even Ponting himself went through phases where their form dipped despite their undeniable talent. What sets players of this caliber apart is their ability to bounce back stronger.