Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed confidence that cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Steve Smith are on the verge of a significant resurgence in their batting performances. Despite a period of modest returns, Ravi Shastri believes that their inherent class and determination will soon translate into substantial contributions on the field.
In recent times, both Kohli and Smith have faced scrutiny due to a dip in their batting averages. Kohli has accumulated 376 runs in nine matches, averaging 25.06, while Smith has scored 337 runs in eight matches at an average of 28.08. In contrast, contemporaries like Joe Root and Kane Williamson have enjoyed prolific runs, with Root amassing 1,556 runs in 17 matches at an average of 55.77, and Williamson scoring 1,013 runs at an impressive average of 59.58.
Ravi Shastri acknowledges this disparity between them but emphasizes that it is only a matter of time before Kohli and Smith regain their dominant form. He notes that their recent centuries in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy are indicative of their potential resurgence. Shastri stated, “In a situation like this, you know they’ll be dangerous because they’ll be hungry.”
Highlighting the importance of patience as well as discipline , Ravi Shastri pointed to Smith’s recent century in Brisbane as an example of adapting to challenging conditions. He remarked, “What’s needed you saw from Smith. It might have been a struggle early on but he was prepared to play the waiting game and be disciplined.”
The cricketing community shares Ravi Shastri’s optimism, recognizing that players of Virat Kohli and Steve Smith’s caliber possess the resilience and skill to navigate periods of adversity. Their potential return to peak form is anticipated to significantly bolster their respective teams, especially in high-stakes matches like the upcoming Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.