Virat Kohli’s visible frustration following his dismissal for 17 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during the fifth Test against Australia has sparked widespread speculation. Kohli, who has been an icon in Test cricket for over a decade, is facing questions about his future in the longest format of the game, especially as his form has dipped in recent outings.
During this series, Virat Kohli has struggled against Australia’s pace attack, with all eight of his dismissals coming off edges caught in the slip cordon. Though he did score a century earlier in the series, his overall contributions have been inconsistent, and the once-dominant batter has been unable to lead from the front as he has in the past. This has led to murmurs about whether this SCG Test might be his last on Australian soil.
Adding a layer of drama, Kohli engaged in a controversial gesture during the game, mimicking the infamous 2018 sandpaper scandal after Steve Smith’s dismissal. The act received mixed reactions from fans, with some viewing it as competitive banter and others criticizing it as unnecessary provocation. Regardless, it highlighted the fiery personality that has been central to Kohli’s career and his fierce rivalry with Australia.
There are also discussions within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about implementing an “exit strategy” for senior players like Kohli. While he remains a significant figure in Indian cricket, the board reportedly wants a smooth transition as new talents emerge. Virat Kohli himself has hinted at taking an extended break after retirement, suggesting he is contemplating life beyond cricket.
The SCG has been a special venue for Virat Kohli, where he has delivered several iconic performances, including centuries that solidified his reputation as one of the greatest Test batters. If this Test indeed marks the end of his career in Australia, it will be a poignant farewell to a battleground where he has excelled and built his legacy.