Virat Kohli’s batting woes in Test cricket have reached alarming proportions, with the former Indian captain enduring a torrid time at the crease. In the recently concluded second Test against New Zealand, Kohli managed scores of 1 and 17, contributing to India’s 113-run defeat.
Kohli’s struggles have become a major concern for the Indian team, as his presence in the middle order is crucial to their success. The 34-year-old has not scored a Test century since November 2019, and his average has plummeted to 26.50 in the last 10 innings.
In a video that went viral on social media, Kohli was seen losing his temper and smashing his bat against a water box while walking back to the pavilion after his dismissal in the second innings. This incident highlights the frustration and pressure that Kohli is currently facing.
India’s defeat in the second Test marked their first Test series loss on home soil in over a decade. New Zealand’s victory was largely due to the brilliance of left-arm spinner Mitchel Santner, who took 13 wickets in the match, including seven in the first innings.
Santner’s performance exposed India’s vulnerability against high-quality spin bowling. The Indian batsmen, once regarded as the finest players of spin in the world, were outfoxed by Santner’s variations and accuracy.
The defeat ended India’s run of 18 consecutive Test series wins at home. It was only the fourth time since 2000 that India had lost a Test series in their own territory.
Kohli’s poor form and India’s Test series loss have raised questions about the team’s future. The Indian team management will need to find a way to address Kohli’s batting woes and improve their performance against spin bowling if they want to regain their dominance in Test cricket.
