Perth: Despite worries regarding his performance level Virat Kohli continues to be a cause of concern, for the Australian cricket squad leading up to the Test series commencing on November 22nd. His impressive history, in Australia coupled with his batting average only adds to the tension as the Australians gear up for what’s expected to be a demanding series ahead.
During a Star Sports discussion segment, with Sanjay Manajrekar as a guest analyst regarding cricket tactics against Virat Kohli by Australia, in a match up; it was mentioned that Australia might take cues from New Zealands playbook when strategizing on how to handle Kohli on the field knowing that their plan might involve capitalizing on his vulnerabilities by focusing on deliveries directed outside the off stump.
Manjrekar explained that Australia may try to unsettle Kohli by restricting his space and focusing on targeting his body of giving him room to play freely.. He pointed out that New Zealand had effectively used a tactic, against Kohli previously.. If Kohli persists in playing at balls, outside the stump bowlers such as Josh Hazlewood might take advantage of this strategy..
Kohlis Test cricket performance has been less, than stellar lately with two centuries and eleven half centuries in his 60 innings stirring up some concern about his form, among fans and experts alike. Especially given his average of 22 in six Tests this year which has even caught the attention of former Australian captain Ricky Pontin.
Cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar believes in Kohlis capability to bounce back in the conditions of Australias cricket grounds as the series draws near—anxiously awaiting to witness if Kohli can rise above the obstacles and silence his detractors.