3 reasons why Virat Kohli can enjoy a good BGT 2024-25 series
The upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) will be a crucial series for Virat Kohli and Team India. Known for his fierce competitiveness and remarkable achievements, Kohli now faces immense scrutiny due to his lean patch in Test cricket.
One of India's most consistent performers over the years, the former skipper is now under pressure to reclaim his form and play a key role for India in this series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification at stake.
With his recent struggles, particularly against spin, and inconsistent display, many may wonder if Kohli still has what it takes to perform in Tests.
However, Virat Kohli's career has been built on resilience and the ability to stage comebacks in high-pressure situations. His record against Australia in the BGT speaks for itself, with several key innings in the past. While his current form certainly raises concerns, his past performances offer a glimmer of hope.
On that note, here are three reasons Virat Kohli could have a successful showing in the BGT 2024-2025 series.
#3 Resilience and track record of comebacks
Throughout his career, Virat Kohli has shown remarkable resilience, often bouncing back after difficult phases. His first major resurgence came during the 2011-12 BGT in Australia, where he overcame a slow start to become India's leading run-scorer, including a 116-run knock in Adelaide.
After a disastrous and forgettable tour of England in 2014, he made a resounding comeback in the 2014-15 BGT, amassing 692 runs in Australia, where he also smashed four hundreds.
Even in the 2023 BGT, Kohli once again delivered when it mattered the most, slamming a crucial 186 in the Ahmedabad Test to help India draw the game and secure a 2-1 series win that also gave them a place in the WTC final.
Given his track record of comebacks, despite recent struggles, Kohli certainly has the mental fortitude and experience to deliver once again in Australia.
#2 Virat Kohli's strong record against Australia
Virat Kohli's love affair with Australia is hidden from none. He has a successful record against them, even in Test cricket. Moreover, Kohli has a strong Test record against Australia in Australia, which shows his knack for thriving against high-quality bowling attacks in challenging conditions.
In 25 Test innings against Australia in Australia, he scored a remarkable 1352 runs at an impressive average of 54.08, wherein he also scored six centuries and four fifties with a top score of 169. These numbers reflect his ability to adapt and excel in one of cricket's most demanding environments.
He has shown his skill and ability in facing the Australian bowlers and dominating them, whether in India or overseas. His previous success in the BGT, combined with his familiarity with conditions and the opposition attack gives him an edge to succeed in the upcoming series.
#1 High stakes and motivation to deliver under pressure
The stakes for Virat Kohli and India in this series are exceedingly high, adding further pressure and motivation for the star batter. Following a disappointing 0-3 series defeat to New Zealand, India's qualification for the WTC final is under threat, requiring an almost improbable 4-0 victory over Australia.
The situation doubles the pressure on Kohli to perform and keep his place in the Test team as well. With a poor and inconsistent form for a long time now. Kohli has been far from his best.
Yet, his fitness, experience, and competitive spirit remain assets that could drive him to deliver Down Under. He also recently spoke about Australia's competitive and fierce mindset, particularly in Test cricket, which motivates him to bring out his best game.
While Kohli faces tremendous pressure, his career is marked by an ability to perform when the stakes are high. His records and performances against Australia, with all his experience, can allow him to have a successful BGT 2024-2025 series.