Virat Kohli form in Australia, Shastri advice, Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli Australia record, India vs Australia 2024
Former India coach Ravi Shastri has expressed confidence that Virat Kohli will return to his best during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Despite a lean patch in 2024, Shastri believes the Australian conditions — where Kohli has enjoyed immense success in the past — will see the star batter rediscover his peak form. Kohli has averaged over 50 runs per innings in Australia, with six centuries to his name, making the land Down Under a venue where he has thrived throughout his career.
Kohli’s Struggles in 2024 and Shastri’s Support
Virat Kohli form slump, Kohli’s 2024 performance, Shastri’s backing
Virat Kohli’s recent form in Tests has raised questions, especially after a disappointing series against New Zealand in October-November 2024. Kohli managed only 93 runs in three Tests, struggling against the Kiwi spinners. His performance this year includes six Tests, 250 runs, and just one fifty, with an average of 22.72. Despite the challenges, Shastri remains bullish on Kohli’s prospects in Australia, urging critics to not write him off.
“Well, the King is back in his territory. That’s all I will tell them,” Shastri said, referring to Kohli’s historical success in Australia. Kohli’s exploits in Australia have been a central theme of the lead-up to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with Australian media featuring him prominently in promotional content. The upcoming series, which begins on November 22 in Perth, is expected to reignite Kohli’s passion for batting in conditions where he has excelled in the past.
Kohli’s Remarkable Record in Australia
Virat Kohli Australia record, Border-Gavaskar history, Kohli centuries in Australia
Virat Kohli’s record in Australia is one of the finest by any overseas batter. In 13 Tests, he has scored 1,352 runs, including six centuries, with an average of over 50. His landmark performances in Australia include a memorable 123 in Perth during the 2018-19 series, when he led India to their first-ever Test series win on Australian soil. Kohli’s consistency in Australia, particularly his stellar 2014-15 series where he scored four centuries in as many Tests, is well-documented.
Shastri is confident that Kohli will rise to the occasion once again in Perth, where the series opener will be held. “When you’ve earned that title after your exploits in Australia, it will be on your (opponent’s) mind when you go out to bat,” Shastri said.
Shastri’s Key Advice for Kohli
Kohli’s batting mindset, Shastri’s advice, Kohli calmness
While Shastri is optimistic about Kohli’s form in Australia, he also had some key advice for the batter. Reflecting on Kohli’s recent struggles, Shastri noted that the former captain appeared “rushed” in the recent New Zealand series. Kohli was dismissed early in key moments, including a run-out in a crunch situation and an unnecessary shot to a full-toss.
Shastri emphasized the importance of Kohli maintaining calmness in the initial phase of his innings. “Your juices are flowing, you’re charged up. It’s again a case with Virat. You want to see calmness because at times you are overeager to get out there and throw the first punch,” Shastri said. Kohli’s ability to play at his own pace and avoid rushing his innings will be crucial for him to regain his rhythm and form.
Kohli’s Historic Performances in Past Border-Gavaskar Trophies
Virat Kohli historic performances, Border-Gavaskar Trophy highlights, Kohli 2018-19 series
Kohli’s journey in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been remarkable, and his success in Australia is a key part of his legacy. In 2018-19, Kohli’s stunning 123 in Perth was pivotal in India’s historic series win, a victory that remains a milestone in Indian cricket history. Kohli’s brilliance in Australia is well-established, and Shastri is confident that the conditions will suit the former captain once again.
As the countdown to the series opener at Perth’s Optus Stadium begins, the Indian team, along with millions of fans, will be looking to Kohli to play a pivotal role in the upcoming Test series. With his fond memories of batting in Australia, including a memorable hundred in Adelaide in 2012, Kohli’s return to form in Australia is eagerly anticipated.
