Kapil Dev Declines to Advise Virat Kohli on Overcoming Struggles in Australia: 'It's His Decision Alone'

8 days ago | 5 Views

Legendary Indian captain Kapil Dev has refrained from offering specific advice to Virat Kohli, who is seeking to regain his form ahead of the Brisbane Test against Australia. Kohli demonstrated promising signs of recovery with a century in the second innings at Perth; however, his performance declined in Adelaide, where he faced difficulties against the pink ball as Australian fast bowlers capitalized on his vulnerabilities outside the off-stump. The prominent batsman was dismissed for scores of 7 and 11, having edged the deliveries to the wicketkeeper.

This year has not been particularly successful for Kohli across all formats, as he has accumulated 611 runs in 21 matches, averaging 22.62, with only one century and two half-centuries to his name.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain acknowledged Kohli as one of the top four batsmen in Indian cricket history, emphasizing that it is ultimately Kohli's responsibility to navigate through this challenging phase.

"Virat Kohli is among the finest cricketers our country has produced. He undoubtedly ranks among the top four batsmen. If he is experiencing a difficult period, it is solely up to him to determine how quickly he can recover," Kapil stated to reporters while discussing the Indian cricket icon.

At 36 years of age, Virat Kohli has faced challenges during India's recent home Test series, managing only one half-century in five matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand. He has scored a mere 373 runs in Test cricket this year, with an average of just 26.64.

Should Bumrah replace Rohit as captain?

In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah successfully guided India to a 295-run victory in Perth.

When inquired about Bumrah's readiness to assume leadership from Rohit, Kapil responded: "It is premature to discuss that matter. One performance does not determine his capability, nor does a single poor performance negate it.

"A player should have ample opportunities to participate in matches and experience captaincy. There will be fluctuations, and it is essential to evaluate an individual based on their response during challenging situations, rather than during favorable ones. We do not need to assess them in times of success; it is when they face adversity that true character is revealed."

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