Sunil Gavaskar, an iconic voice in cricket, strongly criticized Virat Kohli for his reckless dismissal during India’s first innings in the Gabba Test against Australia. Kohli, attempting an extravagant shot early in his innings, departed for a low score, leaving the team in trouble. Gavaskar expressed disappointment with the Indian skipper’s approach, emphasizing that such a high-risk stroke was unnecessary, especially given the fragile position of the team.
The match at Brisbane has been a test of resilience for India, with Australia asserting dominance early. Kohli, expected to anchor the innings and guide the team out of a challenging start, instead fell to a delivery that demanded caution. Gavaskar’s assessment highlighted the gap between expectations from a player of Kohli’s stature and the reality of his execution in this instance.
Gavaskar pointed out that Kohli’s decision to go for a risky shot reflected a lapse in judgment. The Australian bowlers, led by Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, maintained tight lines, forcing errors from the Indian batsmen. Kohli’s early departure added to the mounting pressure on the rest of the batting lineup, which has struggled to find form throughout the series.
Kohli’s recent performances in Test cricket have seen fluctuating results, and this dismissal has reignited conversations about his approach under pressure. Gavaskar noted that while aggression is a hallmark of Kohli’s batting, it needs to be balanced with situational awareness. His failure to adapt to the match scenario cost India a vital opportunity to stabilize their innings and counter Australia’s bowling momentum.
As the Test unfolds, India faces an uphill battle, with their chances of a comeback hinging on disciplined performances from both batters and bowlers. Gavaskar’s critique serves as a reminder of the standards expected at the highest level of cricket and the pivotal role experienced players like Kohli play in defining a team’s fortunes.
For Kohli, the Brisbane Test is another chapter in his storied career, but one that underscores the need for greater composure. Gavaskar’s remarks resonate with fans and analysts alike, reinforcing the belief that leadership on the field demands not only talent but also responsibility in moments of adversity.