Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has shared his thoughts on Virat Kohli’s inconsistent form during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. Bangar’s advice to the former captain comes as India prepares for the crucial fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne, with the series tied 1-1.
India’s Batting Concerns in Brisbane
The third Test in Brisbane ended in a rain-induced draw, sparing India from a potential loss. While the bowlers performed admirably, the Indian batting lineup failed to deliver. In response to Australia’s first-innings score of 445, India managed just 260 runs, thanks largely to the efforts of KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77). Top-order batters Yashasvi Jaiswal (4), Shubman Gill (1), Virat Kohli (3), Rishabh Pant (9), and Rohit Sharma (10) were dismissed cheaply, leaving the team in dire straits.
The second innings saw India facing a target of 275 after Australia declared at 89/7. However, rain halted play with India at 8/0, resulting in a draw.
Bangar’s Advice for Kohli
Despite scoring a century in Perth during the series opener, Kohli’s form has been inconsistent, with just 126 runs in five innings. Speaking to Star Sports, Sanjay Bangar emphasized the importance of a more cautious approach to batting.
“Sometimes, as a batter, you need to surrender to the game momentarily,” Bangar said. “Spend time in the middle, let the bowler come to you, and avoid going after the bowler yourself. That patience is what sets great players apart.”
Bangar also highlighted the need for Kohli to focus on playing deliveries closer to his front pad, which would allow him to rediscover his rhythm.
“Play more balls near your front pad, and the runs will naturally follow. It’s not as though he isn’t scoring at all—he got a century three innings ago and also made a valuable 70-run contribution against New Zealand in Bengaluru,” Bangar added.
Kohli’s Numbers and Team’s Top Performers
While Kohli has struggled for consistency, his century in Perth showed glimpses of his class. In contrast, KL Rahul has been India’s standout performer with 235 runs in the series, followed by Yashasvi Jaiswal (193) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (179).
Melbourne Test Holds the Key
The fourth Test, starting December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, presents a crucial opportunity for India to take the lead in the series. With Kohli’s form under the spotlight and the team relying on collective batting contributions, this match could define the visitors’ campaign in Australia.
