Virat Kohli has faced significant challenges in Test cricket recently, leading to a notable decline in his performance against various bowlers. Specifically, his lowest batting average against a bowler in Tests, with a minimum of 100 balls faced, is against Australian pacer Scott Boland. Kohli’s average against Boland stands at 7.00, which is particularly concerning given that this average places him among the lowest for established batsmen facing any bowler in recent times.
Summary of Kohli’s Recent Performance
. Current Test Average: As of January 2025, Kohli’s overall batting average in his last 40 Tests is 32.29, the lowest among Indian legends during similar stretches.
. Specific Struggles: In the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Kohli was dismissed multiple times by Boland, highlighting his ongoing issues with deliveries outside off-stump.
. Comparative Context: His struggles are part of a broader trend where he has averaged just 7.00 in first innings across five Tests since the start of 2024, placing him below several bowlers in terms of batting average during that period.
Kohli’s struggles have been particularly evident in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, where he managed only one century and was dismissed behind the stumps eight times. His ongoing issues with deliveries outside off-stump have been a recurring theme, leading to speculation about his place in the upcoming Test series in England The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to evaluate Kohli’s performance closely, given the possibility of making tough decisions regarding non-performers.
Also Read: Virat Kohli average across formats in 2024
This downturn in Kohli’s batting form is not just a temporary phase; it reflects a broader trend where he has averaged below 30 in three out of the last four years. His current average stands at 46.85 which is notably lower than his previous career highs and places him third lowest among players with over 9,000 runs in Test cricket.
This decline has raised questions about his future in the Test team, especially with upcoming series and potential changes in the selection committee.
