Virat Kohli's difficulties with deliveries outside the off-stump were once again evident as he managed only 17 runs in India's challenging first innings on the opening day of the crucial fifth Test against Australia. Kohli, who has faced significant criticism throughout the series, was dismissed by Scott Boland, who delivered a ball at the ideal length to exploit Kohli's vulnerability.

The delivery, which moved slightly away and pitched just outside off-stump, prompted Kohli to play a shot, resulting in an outside edge that was expertly caught by debutant Beau Webster at slip. This dismissal marked the 22nd occasion since 2021 that Kohli has fallen to fast bowlers while attempting to play at deliveries outside his off-stump, highlighting a persistent flaw in his technique that has made him susceptible to balls that deviate.

The dismissal was particularly disappointing for Kohli, as he had earlier received a significant reprieve in the innings. In an unusual turn of events, he survived a close call on the very first ball he faced after entering the crease.

Kohli edged a delivery from Boland to Steve Smith at second slip, who made a low dive to his right and directed the ball towards fourth slip, where Marnus Labuschagne completed the catch. However, after reviewing multiple angles, third umpire Joel Wilson determined that the ball had touched the ground before reaching Labuschagne, resulting in Kohli being ruled out.

The crowd at the SCG erupted when the big screen displayed "NOT OUT," prompting a visibly relieved Kohli to break into a wry smile. However, his fortune was short-lived, as Boland capitalized on Kohli's persistent tendency to engage with deliveries outside the off-stump.

Kohli's dismissal adds to Sydney's drama

This early dismissal occurred amidst significant developments off the field. Indian captain Rohit Sharma decided to withdraw from the final Test due to his disappointing performance leading up to the match. Jasprit Bumrah assumed the captaincy for the fifth Test, having previously led the team in the series opener during Rohit's paternity leave.

This decision prompted speculation regarding the future of the 37-year-old Rohit, who has struggled to exceed 10 runs in his five innings throughout the series. The pressure on Kohli to perform was also considerable, as he had not been able to capitalize on his solitary century in the series at Perth.

With India trailing 1-2 in the series, the expectations intensified as the team aimed to maintain their chances of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

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