Senior India batter Virat Kohli’s disappointing run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 persisted as he fell for 17 runs on Day 1 of the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Once again, Kohli was dismissed by edging a delivery outside the off-stump to the slip cordon, marking the sixth instance of this mode of dismissal in seven innings during the series.
Kohli, batting at No. 4, faced 69 balls but managed only 17 runs before being caught in the slips in the 32nd over. His innings began with a scare on the very first ball when he edged Scott Boland to Steve Smith at slip. However, Smith appeared to fumble the catch before passing it to Marnus Labuschagne at gully, offering Kohli a brief reprieve. Despite looking set at times, Kohli once again fell prey to the corridor of uncertainty.
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Kohli’s Series Scores
Kohli’s scores in the series reflect his struggles: 5, 100, 7, 11, 3, 36, 5, and 17*. His only significant performance came with an unbeaten century in the second innings of the opening Test in Perth. However, his repeated dismissals in similar fashion highlight technical flaws that have left him vulnerable.
Jeered by the SCG Crowd
Adding to his woes, Kohli faced jeers from the SCG crowd as he walked to the crease. This animosity stems from an incident during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, where Kohli bumped into young Australian batter Sam Konstas while the latter was batting against Jasprit Bumrah. The clash has made Kohli a target for Australian spectators.
Virat Kohli’s Struggles Continue: Edges to Slips Again, Booed at SCG.
India’s Struggle on Day 1
At the close of play, India was precariously placed at 100/4, with Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant attempting to rebuild the innings. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, along with Shubman Gill and Kohli, were dismissed cheaply, putting the team under significant pressure.
What Lies Ahead?
Kohli’s prolonged struggle with outside-off deliveries has raised questions about his technique and approach. With India facing a must-win situation to keep their World Test Championship final hopes alive, Kohli and the team need a drastic turnaround. For Kohli, the series finale offers one last chance to redeem himself and silence his critics.