Virat Kohli’s struggles with form continued in the second innings of the Pune Test against New Zealand, where he was dismissed for 17 by left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner. Kohli, looking to make a comeback after recent low scores, seemed determined and was in good touch. However, Santner managed to break his resolve once again, getting a length ball to skid off the pitch and trap Kohli right in front of the stumps.
The on-field umpire, Richard Illingworth, was quick to raise his finger, leaving Kohli visibly stunned. Though Virat Kohli opted for a review, replays showed the ball clipping the leg stump, resulting in an umpire’s call that confirmed his dismissal.
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Virat Kohli’s look of disbelief said it all as he reluctantly left the field, clearly frustrated by the narrow margin. His departure silenced the Pune crowd, with fans absorbing the weight of his dismissal and what it meant for India’s chances of mounting a comeback.
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Kohli’s wicket felt like a turning point in the game, as the New Zealand players celebrated his dismissal, aware of its impact on the match. Santner, who dismissed Kohli in both innings, continued his excellent performance, proving to be a thorn in India’s side.
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With Kohli’s low score, questions around his form remain pressing as he heads into a challenging five-match Test series in Australia, where India will contest the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The team and fans alike will be hoping he finds his rhythm soon, as his contributions are critical for India’s success in the upcoming series.
