BGT 2024-25: Shastri Praises Kohli for His Patient Approach Against Australia
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New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Former India head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli for his methodical approach and for playing the Australian bowlers at his own tempo, leading to an unbeaten century that was crucial in the visitors’ commanding 295-run victory in Perth.
At Perth Stadium, Kohli capitalized on a fatigued Australian bowling attack to achieve his seventh Test century on Australian soil, joining Walter Hammond in the ranks of players with the most centuries while touring, just behind Jack Hobbs, who holds the record with nine centuries.
Kohli’s unbeaten knock of 143 balls marked his 30th Test century, coming after a gap of 18 months, featuring eight fours and two sixes. “He wasn’t rushing around like a cat on a hot tin roof. That was what impressed me the most. Often, a batsman gets dismissed before he’s even settled, but Virat took his time. You are among the best in the world,” Shastri remarked.
“Allow the opposition to play at your pace. That's precisely what he did in both innings. Although he faced a challenging delivery that bounced high, I admired how quickly he adjusted by moving back in the crease to mitigate the bounce. This gave him extra time and showcased his composure and movement,” he continued.
“Within just 10 minutes, I could tell from his batting that if he had a touch of luck in the first 20-25 minutes, he would capitalize. It was no surprise to me; sometimes you can see it right away. That strong start instilled confidence in me,” Shastri added during The ICC Review show.
With a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, India aims to build on their success from Perth as they prepare for the upcoming pink-ball Day-Night Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, starting on Friday. Shastri advised Kohli to maintain his routine and avoid altering his approach when facing the pink ball in Adelaide.
“Stick to the same methods. It’s crucial to visualize what worked for you earlier. You might not play exactly the same way, and the opposition may bowl differently than they did in that initial half-hour,” he advised.
“However, the fundamental aspects of your approach—like taking guard and visualization—are critical to replicate. Nothing else changes. Whether the ball is pink, red, or white, your thought process when entering the crease should be second nature. Just do it,” he concluded.
