Virat Kohli’s struggles in the Boxing Day Test against Australia have sparked widespread criticism, as the star batter failed to deliver yet again. Kohli’s performance in the ongoing five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series has been underwhelming, leaving fans and analysts questioning his form. In the second innings, Kohli fell for another cheap dismissal, chasing a wide delivery outside off-stump.
Kohli’s poor shot selection cost India dearly, prompting commentator and former first-class cricketer James Brayshaw to label him a “nicking machine” during a live radio broadcast.
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“Gone! He’s out flashing outside off stump… out of nowhere. It’s been pouched by Khawaja, and the third wicket falls. He has turned into a nicking machine,” James Brayshaw exclaimed, capturing the frustration of Indian fans.
“HE HAS TURNED INTO A NICKING MACHINE!” 😳
Virat Kohli departs for 5 and it is 3/33 at lunch… #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/5bphCDkF0e
— Triple M Cricket (@triplemcricket) December 30, 2024
Australia’s victory in the Boxing Day Test has now given them a 2-1 lead in the series, with only one match left in Sydney. While India can still aim for a series draw to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, their inconsistent performances have drawn significant backlash. Kohli, a player expected to lead by example, has faced heightened scrutiny for his lacklustre contributions.
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The year 2024 has been one to forget for Kohli in red-ball cricket. Over 19 innings, he managed just 417 runs at a dismal average of 24.52, with only one century and a solitary half-century. His numbers in the current series are equally disappointing, with an average of 27.83. Since his promising start in Perth, Kohli has struggled to replicate his former brilliance.
India’s loss at the MCG has also hurt their position in the World Test Championship standings. The team now faces an uphill battle in Sydney, where they must not only salvage the series but also focus on retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. A strong performance will be crucial to ending their tour on a high and silencing critics.
