The recently concluded ODI series against Sri Lanka has been nothing less than a nightmare for Indian cricket team’s batting superstar Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli fell victim to LBW in all three matches of the series, and this consistency has created a stir in the cricket world.
Sri Lankan bowlers made a splash
In the first match of the series held at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, the right-handed batsman was trapped LBW by Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga for 24 runs. This was the beginning, which later turned into an unfortunate trend.
In the second ODI, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay got Kohli out LBW for just 14 runs, and Sri Lanka defeated India by 32 runs in this match.
In the final ODI of the series, Kohli’s disappointing condition continued. Left-arm spinner Dunith Velalage got him out LBW for 20 runs off 18 balls. In this match, India was defeated by Sri Lanka by a huge 110 runs.
Virat Kohli has been dismissed 10 times against left-arm spinners in ODI cricket since 2022. His average in this series was only 24.1 runs, which is quite disappointing compared to his stardom. His weakness has exposed his problems against spin in turning conditions.
Aakash Chopra’s shocking comment
Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has expressed his concern about this rare and worrying trend.
He said, “Virat Kohli, three matches, three leg befores. I don’t remember the last time it happened that Virat Kohli was dismissed leg before three times. When he went back once, when he went forward twice, when he played on the wrong line.”
Chopra also said, “When he got out three times, he also used the review three times. This means he used the review in the first and second games. But it did not seem that he was able to dominate. So, it was a bit surprising.”
Kohli’s challenging journey
This ODI series has proved to be a serious challenge for Virat Kohli. His frequent LBW dismissals have not only raised questions about his personal ability but have also affected the strategy of the Indian cricket team. Now it remains to be seen how Kohli improves this weakness in his game and overcome it in the future.
Despite the disappointing end to this series, Kohli’s fans are hopeful that he will soon return to his old form and will be seen on the field with a new energy.
