The Australian bowlers have effectively exploited Virat Kohli’s vulnerability outside the off-stump, dismissing the iconic batter cheaply in three of his four innings so far in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Pat Cummins and his team have zeroed in on Kohli’s well-documented struggle with deliveries in that area, reaping significant rewards.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes Indian bowlers should adopt a similar approach to tackle Travis Head, who has his own discomfort against deliveries outside the off-stump. Kaif pointed out that even Scott Boland, a bowler who plays only a handful of Tests each year, has shown a clear understanding of where to bowl to Kohli, making the Indian star falter repeatedly.
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“Virat Kohli ki kamzori log pakad ke rakhe huye hai. Off-stump ke bahar ball dalo, wahan out honge (People are aware of Kohli’s weakness and exploit it. Bowl outside the off-stump, and he’ll likely get out),” Mohammad Kaif commented in a video posted on his ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) handle.
Mohammad Kaif also questioned why the Indian bowlers haven’t employed similar targeted strategies against Head, despite knowing his shortcomings. “If someone like Boland knows exactly how to trouble Kohli, why can’t we plan better for Travis Head? Every batter has weaknesses. Why can’t our bowlers consistently bowl outside the off-stump or pepper him with short balls to trap him?” Kaif argued.
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Head showcased his prowess with a match-winning knock of 140 off 141 balls in the second Test at Adelaide, steering Australia to a crucial series-levelling victory. Meanwhile, Kohli’s series has been underwhelming, with a lone unbeaten century in Perth contrasted by just 23 runs from his other three innings.
As the series heats up, India will look to bounce back when the third Test kicks off at the historic Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday, December 14. With critical match-ups like Kohli vs. Cummins and Head vs. Indian bowlers, this Test could prove pivotal in the five-match series.
