Virat Kohli’s 2024 Test season has been far from spectacular. With just 250 runs in 12 innings, including a series of disappointing performances against New Zealand, the cricket world is beginning to question if the former captain’s golden years are behind him. But, in the face of mounting pressure, one man is backing Kohli to turn things around: Sourav Ganguly.
In a candid interview, the former Indian cricket captain made an unfiltered remark about Kohli’s career, suggesting that this upcoming series in Australia could be the last time the star batter competes in the iconic Border-Gavaskar Trophy down under. Ganguly’s comments have caught the attention of fans and critics alike, sparking fresh debate on Kohli’s future in Test cricket.
Virat Kohli’s Struggles: A Disappointing Year
To say that Virat Kohli has had a tough year in Test cricket would be an understatement. His numbers this year are underwhelming by his usual standards. Kohli has only scored 250 runs in 12 Test innings, at an average of 22.72. What’s worse, he hasn’t managed a single Test century in 2024, a year that many hoped would see him return to his best form.
Kohli’s struggles were especially evident during India’s 3-match Test series against New Zealand earlier this year. In those six innings, he failed to score even 100 runs combined, with just one half-century to show for his efforts. This has led to increasing frustration among fans and critics who expect more from one of the world’s greatest batsmen.
Ganguly’s Bold Prediction: “This Could Be His Last Series in Australia”
As Kohli prepares for the Test series against Australia, the stakes could not be higher. This series, according to Sourav Ganguly, could very well be Kohli’s last chance to make a significant impact on Australian soil.
Ganguly, who has closely followed Kohli’s career, spoke out in support of the star batter while acknowledging the challenges Kohli faces. “Absolutely, he is a champion batter,” Ganguly said. “He has had success in Australia in the past. He scored four hundreds in 2014, and a hundred in 2018. He will want to make this series count. And he will also know this could be the last time he is touring Australia to play Test cricket.”
Ganguly’s remark comes with a touch of realism. Kohli is now 36 years old, and with the next Border-Gavaskar Trophy not scheduled for several years, it’s uncertain whether he will still be part of the team by then. This series in Australia could potentially mark the final chapter of Kohli’s long and illustrious career in Australian Test cricket.
Kohli’s Past Success in Australia: A Ray of Hope
Despite a tough year, there is hope for Kohli, especially when it comes to playing in Australia—a country where he has had remarkable success in the past. Over the years, Kohli has established himself as one of the best batsmen in Australia. In 13 Tests in Australia, he has scored 1,352 runs at an impressive average of 54.08, including 6 centuries. This stellar record gives Kohli a proven track record in the country, and many believe that the familiar Australian pitches could be just what he needs to rediscover his form.
Ganguly, who himself played pivotal roles in Indian cricket’s triumphs in Australia, is confident that the conditions in Australia will suit Kohli’s game. “I don’t want to read too much into the New Zealand series,” Ganguly explained. “The pitches there did not allow good batting. In Australia, he will enjoy the conditions. The pitches will be good, and he will have the opportunity to make his mark.”
Kohli’s Form in 2024: What Went Wrong?
While Kohli’s record in Australia remains impressive, the reality is that his form in 2024 has been worrying. Kohli’s struggles with the bat this year have been a sharp contrast to his usual high standards. Even in familiar conditions at home, he struggled against New Zealand, failing to find his rhythm.
Some of the key reasons for Kohli’s poor year could include:
- Inconsistent batting form: Kohli has shown glimpses of his brilliance but hasn’t been able to put together long innings.
- Increased pressure: The expectations on Kohli are always sky-high, and after his success in limited-overs formats, the pressure to perform in Tests has only mounted.
- Changes in playing conditions: Pitches in India and New Zealand have been difficult for batting, with green tops and spinning tracks offering little comfort to batsmen.
- The mental aspect: After an incredible career, it’s natural for every player to go through phases of self-doubt, and it’s clear that Kohli’s form slump has had a psychological impact.
But as Ganguly points out, Kohli’s past record and his sheer determination make him more than capable of turning things around, especially in Australia.
The Pressure Is On: Can Kohli Deliver?
The upcoming series in Australia could very well define the next phase of Kohli’s Test career. The cricketing world will be watching closely to see whether the 36-year-old can bounce back and prove that he still has what it takes to dominate in Test cricket.
While the pressure is undoubtedly high, Kohli has shown time and again that he thrives under difficult circumstances. If he can summon the spirit of his past successes and make a statement in Australia, it could silence critics and restore his place at the top of the game.
Conclusion: A Massive Series for Kohli
For Virat Kohli, this series in Australia is more than just another Test series. It’s a chance to silence his doubters, prove his critics wrong, and potentially end his career in Australia on a high note. As Ganguly aptly put it, “This could be his last time playing in Australia, and he knows that. It’s a massive series for him.”
Only time will tell if Kohli can rise to the occasion, but one thing is certain—if anyone can bounce back from adversity, it’s the man who once led India to the top of the world in Test cricket.
