Virat Kohli’s recent struggles in red-ball cricket have brought his vulnerability against spin into sharp focus. In ODIs, the statistics tell a similar story—since 2022, 47.22% of his dismissals have come against spin bowling. This recurring issue has fueled discussions about his form across formats, with former cricketers weighing in on his approach and technique.
Since 2022, Kohli has been dismissed 42 times by spinners out of 101 total dismissals in 115 innings, which translates into a combined percentage of 41.58%. His susceptibility to spin has not gone unnoticed, particularly after his dismissal to Rishad Hossain in India’s opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Cricketing voices like Harbhajan Singh and Aakash Chopra have been vocal about Kohli’s apparent struggle, urging him to find solutions before the crucial encounters ahead.
This problem is not unique to Kohli—India’s problems against spin have been apparent in recent series. In the Test series against New Zealand, spinners Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel exposed a number of Indian batters, repeatedly troubling them with turn and variation. The trend speaks to a larger issue in India’s batting strategy, especially against quality spin attacks.
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As per a report by news agency PTI, Virat Kohli primarily faced spinners during his practice session. The lineup included a mix of bowlers—two leg-spinners, two off-spinners, and a left-arm spinner—ensuring he trained against all types of spin variations. With Pakistan’s Khushdil Shah offering a left-arm spin option and Salman Agha specializing in off-spin, Kohli’s focused preparation could prove crucial in countering their threat in the upcoming clash.
Virat Kohli Hits Nets Early to Focus on Spin Play Ahead of Pakistan Clash
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Harbhajan Singh, reviewing Kohli’s dismissal, reiterated that reputation won’t be enough to ensure success. “You may be big or small, but your approach at the crease is important. Slower bowlers, and especially leg-spinners, have troubled him. He needs a strategy—something that makes him rotate strike and release the dot-ball pressure,” Harbhajan said to India Today.
With India scheduled to play Pakistan on February 23, Virat Kohli will need to gear up to face a spin-orientated attack.
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Pakistan’s spinners will surely put him to the test, and the game will be a golden chance for him to shut up critics. Yet, Kohli has a past record of recovering when in the limelight. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, he flourished against spin, averaging a remarkable 95.62 in the tournament while breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI centuries. If he can recapture that form, he stands a fair chance to reclaim control and spearhead India’s quest in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
