Virat Kohli, aged 36, has recently faced challenges in Test cricket, raising questions about his participation in the upcoming five-match Test series in England later this year. The right-handed batsman's performance has undergone a significant decline, shifting from being a key player in the lineup to attracting negative attention. Kohli has considerable work ahead of him.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar suggests that Kohli should consider playing county cricket prior to the England tour to enhance his readiness for the series.

Kohli's recent performance in Australia was disappointing, as he accumulated only 190 runs across nine innings. His statistics would have been even less favorable had he not scored a century in the first match in Perth.

The batsman, who has achieved 30 Test centuries, was dismissed in a similar manner on all eight occasions, repeatedly chasing wide deliveries outside the off stump.

"Kohli must engage in extensive red-ball cricket. The first Test in England is scheduled for June, while the County Championship commences in April. He could join a county team, similar to Pujara, to gain essential match experience," Manjrekar remarked during a recent episode of Star Sports' Deep Point podcast.

"India can then assess his performances in the initial Test matches. If he shows positive signs, he can continue. However, the last thing we want is for Kohli to struggle there, as we have witnessed in the past. That would not be beneficial for Indian cricket. Participating in county cricket could be a prudent decision for him," he concluded.

Sanjay Bangar backs Virat Kohli

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar expressed his support for Virat Kohli to persist in representing India, despite his recent struggles in the longest format of the game.

Kohli has been included in Delhi's 22-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra, scheduled for January 23. However, it is uncertain whether he will choose to participate in this match.

The last time Kohli played in the Ranji Trophy for Delhi was 13 years ago, in 2012.

"I continue to support him. Even at the age of 36, he maintains exceptional fitness. His fitness levels are outstanding, and I am confident that he can keep competing at the highest level," Bangar remarked.

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