Virat Kohli Mobbed By Fans Amid ODI Form Concerns

Virat Kohli’s return to the international ODI circuit has faced a challenging start, as the Indian cricket team stalwart was dismissed for a duck in the second ODI against Australia in Adelaide. This marked his second consecutive scoreless innings, further fueling discussions about his future in the ODI format.

Despite his struggles on the field, Virat Kohli remained a crowd favourite, drawing enthusiastic fans at the airport in Sydney ahead of the third ODI. Several supporters managed to secure autographs and selfies with him, demonstrating that his popularity remains undiminished, even as runs continue to elude him.

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Disappointing Returns At Familiar Venues

Kohli’s recent performances have not mirrored the kind of form many fans had anticipated. In the series opener at Optus Stadium in Perth, which was affected by rain, he fell prey to Mitchell Starc’s seaming delivery, getting out for an eight-ball duck, caught acrobatically by Cooper Connolly.

His return to Adelaide, a ground where he has previously enjoyed considerable success, also failed to yield runs. After initially appearing composed, he was outfoxed by Xavier Bartlett’s in-swinging delivery and trapped in front of the stumps, departing with a four-ball duck. Despite the disappointment, Kohli acknowledged the crowd with a gesture, removing his gloves and bidding goodbye as the spectators gave a standing ovation.

Ashwin Expresses Concern And Hopes For Recovery

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressed concern over Kohli’s recent dismissals, particularly highlighting his inability to judge the line of the ball. Ashwin noted, “One thing I would be worried about is Virat actually missed the line of the ball. Virat planted his foot in line with the ball. That is telling me a story that he needs time in the middle.” Ashwin emphasised that Kohli’s brief stays at the crease indicate a need for more innings to regain rhythm.

He remains optimistic about Kohli’s potential in the upcoming games, stating, “In Sydney, there is no reason why Virat should not make runs. But I think he would be thinking very deeply about how he got out in the last two games. It is not going to be easy, but I hope Virat gets out of it.” Ashwin’s comments underline the expectation that Kohli, despite recent setbacks, can find his form again with patience and focus.