Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes that Virat Kohli is well aware of what to expect from Australia’s bowling attack in the highly anticipated five-match Test series beginning November 22 at Perth Stadium. With India and Australia set to clash, much focus is on Kohli’s performance, especially as he’s struggled with his form in Test cricket recently. Given his stellar record on Australian soil, Kohli will face immense scrutiny, with expectations high for him to deliver match-winning performances.
Sanjay Manjrekar, in a recent analysis, discussed the tactical approach Australia’s bowlers might take to unsettle Kohli. He noted that they would likely begin by testing Kohli’s discipline outside the off-stump, a line where he has occasionally been vulnerable.
“Virat knows exactly what’s coming,” Sanjay Manjrekar explained on Star Sports. “Australia will start with that probing line outside off-stump, observing his initial approach. Lately, he’s been leaving those deliveries, but any full-pitched ball will tempt him to drive.”
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The former cricketer further elaborated on how teams have adjusted their strategies against Kohli, taking cues from New Zealand’s recent tactics. He pointed out that bowlers have been attempting to restrict Kohli’s natural style by cramping him for room and targeting his body. This tactic is aimed at exploiting Kohli’s forward movement, a signature part of his batting.
“New Zealand’s approach to attack his body was smart. They tried to restrict his space, and Australia’s Josh Hazlewood might similarly attempt to target his pads with a middle-stump line, especially if Kohli is overly focused on guarding his off-stump,” Sanjay Manjrekar added.
Kohli’s recent form has been a concern. He managed only 93 runs in India’s 0-3 Test series loss to New Zealand, marking one of his leanest patches. Over the year, he has accumulated just 250 runs across six Tests at an average of 22.72, with only one fifty. Despite these challenges, Kohli remains India’s prime hope for big scores, especially considering his exceptional record in Australia. With 1,352 runs at an impressive average of 54.08 from 13 Tests down under, Kohli has shown he thrives in Australian conditions.
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As India gears up for this crucial series, their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final could hinge on Kohli’s contributions. The upcoming matches present Kohli an opportunity to reclaim his rhythm and help India secure pivotal wins. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely, as Kohli attempts to rediscover his form and lead India’s charge in this all-important Border-Gavaskar series.
