AUS vs IND: Irfan Pathan brutally demolishes Virat Kohli after India’s Test series defeat against Australia
Former India versatile commentator Irfan Pathan questioned Virat Kohlia place in the Indian Test team after a long run of poor form. Kohli, who was once considered the centerpiece of Indian batting, is going through one of the worst phases of his career, especially in the 2024-25 season. Pathan’s criticism centered on Kohli’s declining numbers and the need for the Indian team to adopt a long-term approach by grooming a youngster in his place.
Irfan Pathan highlights Virat Kohli’s struggle
In the recent it concluded a disastrous five-match Test series against AustraliaKohli managed to score just 190 runs in nine innings at an average of 23.75, with the only highlight being a solitary century in Perth. His difficulties, especially with deliveries that take place outside the off-stump, have become a constant problem.
Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan highlighted Kohli’s first innings average of just 15.63 in 2024 and his overall decline since 2020. He further added that the youngster with consistent opportunities could easily average between 25-30, stressing that interests would teams should take precedence over individual status.
“In 2024, in the first innings when the game is set, Virat Kohli averages only 15. If we take out his figures in the last five years, he does not even average 30. Is this what the Indian team deserves from its senior player? Instead of him, you give the youngster regular chances, you give him time to get ready, even he can have an average of 25-30. Because here we are talking about a team, not about individuals,” said the Pathan.
“India needs a team culture, not a superstar culture”: pathan
Pathan also criticized Kohli’s lack of involvement in domestic cricket, comparing it to the dedication shown by legends like Sachin Tendulkarwho played home games towards the end of his career.
“India don’t need a superstar culture, they need a team culture. Tell me when was the last time Virat Kohli played domestic cricket when he was free? When was the last time that happened? Almost a decade has passed. Since then, even the legendary Sachin Tendulkar played it and retired completely. He didn’t have to play, but even he came to play.” Pathan concluded.
It’s time to shift the spotlight! 🌟 #IrfanPathan calls for an end to superstar culture, emphasizing the importance of building a strong team mentality in Indian cricket💬🇮🇳#AUSvINDOnStar #Toughest rivalry #WTC #World Testing Championship pic.twitter.com/YQ6TKJUXe4
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 5, 2025
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Kohli’s slump in form raises serious questions
As of 2020, Kohli has scored 2,028 runs from 39 matches at an average of 30.72, managing only three centuries and nine fifties. His struggles have become more evident since 2024, amassing 440 runs from 11 matches at a much lower average of 23.15, with one century and one half-century to his name.
Kohli’s Test batting average, once among the best in the world at 54.97 in 2019, has now fallen to 46.85. His prolonged poor form has put his place in the team under the microscope. With constant failures in the opening stages of the innings and his inability to convert starts into meaningful runs, doubts have been raised whether Kohli can still deliver at the highest level.
The upcoming tour of England could prove to be a defining moment in Kohli’s Test career. With competition from younger players like Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal going from strength to strength, the Indian team management faces a critical decision: continue to back Kohli or switch to a younger, fresher line-up.
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