Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has expressed confidence in Virat Kohli’s ability to perform well in the upcoming Test series against Australia. Clarke highlighted Kohli’s impressive record in Australia, where he has scored six centuries in 13 Tests.
Clarke believes that the media hype and build-up surrounding Kohli will motivate him to perform. He also emphasized that Kohli’s familiarity with the Australian conditions will be an advantage.
“Virat Kohli has had a lot of success in Australia. He still has the game and will be hungry. The conditions will suit him. I am very sure he will score the maximum runs for India,” Clarke said.
Kohli’s recent form has been a cause for concern, with the batter averaging just 20.33 in 19 international matches this year. However, Clarke believes that Kohli can turn things around in Australia.
“If he gets runs in the first game, he will get runs all series. He loves the fight and getting into the action. All of this will pump him up for sure,” Clarke added.
Kohli’s struggles in Tests have been particularly noticeable since 2020. In 34 Tests since then, he has averaged just 31.68, with only two centuries.
However, Kohli’s record in Australia remains impressive. In 13 Tests, he has scored 1,352 runs at an average of 54.08, with six centuries and four fifties.
The Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia begins on November 22 in Perth. The series will be a major test for Kohli, who is facing increasing pressure to deliver.
