Bangar: Kohli’s Impact in Boxing Day Test Could Be a Game-Changer
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New Delhi, Dec 21 (NationPress) Former India head coach Sanjay Bangar believes that the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is the perfect opportunity for Virat Kohli to rise to the occasion and reestablish himself as the fulcrum of India’s batting lineup.
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tied at 1-1, this match is crucial for India’s aspirations to clinch the series and enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Kohli’s form has been inconsistent throughout the series. Although his century in Perth was vital for India’s success, his performance in other matches has been lackluster. With only 126 runs over six innings at an average of 30, Kohli has struggled with consistency. If we exclude his Perth century, he has managed just 26 runs in five innings.
In an interview with Star Sports, Bangar pointed out the technical difficulties Kohli has encountered, especially with deliveries outside the off-stump. Australian bowlers have effectively exploited this weakness, causing Kohli to make mistakes. Nevertheless, the former Indian cricketer emphasized that patience and a composed approach at the crease could serve as a remedy for Kohli’s challenges.
"At times, it’s important to maintain your stature as a batter in control. When you relax slightly into the game, take some time, and let the bowler come to you instead of rushing towards him, that’s a characteristic of a great player," Bangar stated.
The MCG provides a platform that has favored Kohli in the past. With 316 runs at an average of 52.66 at this venue, Kohli has cherished memories, including a remarkable 169-run innings in the Boxing Day Test of 2014. The conditions in Melbourne, known for their bounce and carry, complement Kohli’s strengths, making this match an excellent opportunity for him to regain his form.
Bangar added that Kohli should concentrate on playing balls close to his front pad, a strategy that could assist him in regaining rhythm and fluency. "Engage with as many balls as possible near your front pad, and then the runs will come. It’s not that he hasn’t scored runs; he scored a century just three innings ago.
“Virat’s role in this high-stakes encounter could be the difference-maker. He has accomplished it before at the MCG, and there’s no reason he can’t do it again," Bangar emphasized.
The draw in the Gabba Test demonstrated India’s resilience, yet it also highlighted the batting struggles of seasoned players like Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma. With the series evenly matched, a robust batting display in Melbourne is essential. Kohli, in particular, must lead by example to set the tone for the rest of the batting lineup.
