Unveiling the Flaws: Gavaskar’s Surprising Take on Virat Kohli’s Technique

A Legendary Critique of a Modern Great

In the world of cricket, few names resonate as powerfully as Virat Kohli. Known for his aggressive batting style and record-breaking performances, Kohli recently faced scrutiny from cricketing legends, particularly Sunil Gavaskar. After a challenging series against Australia, Gavaskar’s unexpected critique has reignited discussions about Kohli’s technique, especially concerning his ability to handle deliveries outside off-stump.

The Context: Kohli’s Recent Struggles

Despite having amassed over 9,000 runs and 30 Test centuries, Kohli has encountered a rough patch in his career. His average has dipped to 48, a significant drop that has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. This decline is particularly evident in his performances during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he struggled against quality bowling, leading to discussions about his technical vulnerabilities.

Gavaskar’s Insights on Kohli’s Technique

Sunil Gavaskar, a former Indian cricketer and one of the game’s greats, highlighted the technical flaws that have been creeping into Kohli’s game. In recent matches, particularly during the Adelaide Test, Kohli was seen struggling with deliveries pitched outside off-stump. Gavaskar pointed out that Kohli’s reluctance to adjust his technique to counter this weakness has been detrimental to his performance. He noted:

“One important reason why Virat’s average has slipped is his unfortunate weakness outside off. But more crucially, his adamance to not try another way to tackle it” 

This observation aligns with critiques from other cricket analysts who have pointed out that Kohli’s footwork and shot selection have become predictable against both spin and pace bowling.

The Technical Breakdown: What’s Going Wrong?

Kohli’s issues are not merely a result of bad luck or concentration; they stem from deeper technical deficiencies. Analysts have noted that his footwork has become less effective, particularly when facing deliveries that require quick adjustments. For instance:

• Predictable Footwork: Kohli has been criticized for not stepping out against spinners effectively, leading to dismissals that highlight his inability to adapt.
• Poor Shot Selection: His tendency to play expansive shots without proper foot movement has resulted in edges and mistimed strokes, often leading to his dismissal.

These technical flaws were particularly evident during the recent Test series against Australia, where bowlers exploited these weaknesses mercilessly.

The Road Ahead: Can Kohli Reinvent Himself?

Despite these challenges, there is hope for Kohli. He has shown resilience in the past and possesses the skills necessary to adapt and overcome these hurdles. Gavaskar emphasized the importance of reinventing oneself, stating:

“As your experience grows, you do not tend to stick to what you know… You can widen and increase the repertoire of your shots” .

Kohli’s ability to make minor adjustments in his stance and approach could be crucial for regaining his form. For instance, during a recent innings where he scored a century in Perth, he demonstrated a more relaxed body posture and an improved stance that allowed him to handle bounce better.

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