Sunil Gavaskar didn’t mince words when criticizing Virat Kohli’s behaviour during the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The legendary cricketer opined that Kohli’s on-field antics not only detracted from his own performance but also added unnecessary pressure on the team. Kohli had a forgettable series with the bat, managing just 190 runs across nine innings at a modest average of 23.75.

All eight of his dismissals came from deliveries outside the off-stump, highlighting a recurring technical flaw. One moment that drew widespread attention was Kohli’s shoulder bump with Australian youngster Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The move earned Kohli a fine of 20% of his match fee and a demerit point.

Adding to the controversy, Kohli further incited Australian fans on the final day of the Sydney Test by mimicking a sandpaper gesture, referencing the infamous ball-tampering scandal. Sunil Gavaskar was unimpressed, calling Kohli’s actions unnecessary and counterproductive.

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“The shoulder bump was simply not cricket. Indians have never shied away from standing their ground if provoked, but here, the provocation wasn’t there,” Sunil Gavaskar wrote in The Sydney Morning Herald. He emphasized that engaging with hostile crowds only escalates tensions and serves no purpose. “Crowds boo players for entertainment, not out of personal animosity. Reacting to them does more harm than good,” he added.

Gavaskar also noted that Kohli’s reactions placed undue pressure on his teammates, turning them into additional targets for the crowd’s ire. Furthermore, he highlighted the batter’s struggles against deliveries outside the off-stump, which prevented Kohli from making meaningful contributions to India’s total.

“Kohli must understand that his actions not only affect him but also bring his teammates into the firing line. His inability to resist playing at those deliveries cost India runs, which could have turned the tide in critical moments,” Sunil Gavaskar remarked.

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India’s disappointing 1-3 series loss marked their first defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in over a decade. With Kohli’s form under scrutiny, the team now faces a crucial five-match Test series against England in June, offering an opportunity for redemption in the red-ball format.