Virat Kohli’s recent form, particularly in Test cricket, has sparked discussions among fans and cricket experts alike. The former Indian captain, once celebrated as a prolific scorer, has experienced a noticeable drop in form over the past few years. While he remains one of India’s most reliable batters, his diminishing number of centuries has raised concerns about his impact on the Indian batting lineup. Former cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra recently weighed in on this, noting that Kohli’s inability to reach triple figures consistently is a significant concern. Chopra pointed out that if Kohli continues at his current pace, his batting average might dip into the mid-30s—a level uncharacteristic of a player of his caliber.
Kohli’s struggle isn’t simply a recent issue; it has gradually developed over the past five years, with only a few standout performances in between. For a player who once dominated the world stage, this decline has been a point of concern, especially for a cricket-loving nation with high expectations for its star players. Kohli’s last consistent run of centuries was during his peak between 2016 and 2018, but since then, his conversion rate has dropped, with several starts that he has failed to convert into big scores. His average also took a significant hit during this period, dropping from a high of nearly 55 in 2019 to a fluctuating average in recent years. While Kohli scored two centuries in 2023, one of them came on a flat pitch in Ahmedabad, which didn’t add much to his reputation as a dependable scorer in challenging conditions.
Chopra further emphasized Kohli’s role within the current Indian lineup, which has increasingly relied on young talents alongside the seasoned presence of Rohit Sharma. Kohli, who was once a figure of consistency, now has additional responsibility as one of the few experienced players in the squad. India’s middle-order lineup has seen shifts, with players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane no longer regular fixtures. This places further emphasis on Kohli’s need to perform. With his reputation as an all-format player, Kohli is expected not just to anchor the innings but also to provide the team with stability.
Comparing Kohli with his contemporaries, including Joe Root, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith, highlights the nature of his decline. In recent years, Root has enjoyed a resurgence, producing some of his best Test performances, while Kohli’s numbers have lagged. The “Fab Four” of modern-day cricket, a group comprising Kohli, Root, Smith, and Williamson, was once celebrated for their consistency and hunger for runs. Root’s resurgence and Smith’s stable performances have widened the gap between them and Kohli, who has struggled to maintain his early-career momentum. Between 2021 and 2023, Kohli’s batting statistics show limited growth, while his contemporaries have either maintained or increased their run tallies in the same period.
As Kohli enters the latter stages of his career, questions about his form become even more pressing, especially with India’s upcoming international fixtures, including the World Test Championship (WTC). India needs strong performances to stay competitive in the WTC, and Kohli’s contributions will be critical if they are to compete effectively against teams like Australia and New Zealand. Chopra voiced optimism about Kohli’s ability to adapt and find his rhythm again, noting his mental resilience and extensive experience. Kohli’s track record of bouncing back from challenging phases offers hope, yet time is of the essence.
In the grander scheme of Indian cricket, Kohli’s role as a mentor to younger players is also significant. As the team brings in emerging talents, Kohli’s experience and leadership can help guide the next generation. However, his impact as a mentor would be even more powerful if it is complemented by strong personal performances. A high-performing Kohli could offer a dual advantage: stability at the crease and a calming influence on less-experienced players, helping India build a balanced and adaptable lineup.
India’s upcoming series will be an opportunity for Kohli to address his critics and reaffirm his place as one of cricket’s modern greats. The third Test against New Zealand will be crucial, with India needing a win to maintain their WTC hopes. Kohli’s form, particularly against the New Zealand spinners, will be closely watched. A strong performance in Mumbai could be a turning point, both for Kohli’s form and for India’s Test campaign. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic that Kohli will reclaim his rhythm and return to his peak form.
While his dip in form is concerning, Kohli has always been known for his work ethic and ability to rise to the occasion. His journey over the next few years will not only shape his legacy but also play a critical role in the trajectory of Indian cricket. A return to form would reinforce his status as a cornerstone of the Indian batting lineup and bring much-needed stability to the squad in high-stakes matches.