Virat Kohli, the modern-day great, finds himself at a unique juncture in his illustrious career. Having retired from both T20Is and Test cricket, he is now solely focused on the ODI format. This transition, while allowing him to prolong his international career, presents a set of challenges that Kohli must navigate to remain a dominant force in the world of cricket.
One of the primary concerns is maintaining match sharpness. With the modern game increasingly dominated by T20s and with a packed Test schedule, the ODI format often takes a backseat. Kohli's recent struggles in the ongoing ODI series against Australia, where he recorded consecutive ducks, have amplified these concerns. These were his first back-to-back ODI ducks. Former players and critics have pointed out that the lack of regular competitive cricket could lead to rustiness, impacting his timing and reflexes.
Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson believes that it will be a challenge for Kohli to remain sharp by playing just one format. He noted that adjusting to face the best bowlers after a long gap requires time and effort. Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Kohli to regain form quickly amidst fierce competition for places in the Indian team.
Kohli himself acknowledged the challenges, stating that physical preparation is key. He emphasized the importance of maintaining his fitness levels to ensure his body aligns with his game awareness. Despite the gap in international cricket, Kohli has been participating in the IPL, helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinch their maiden title.
Another challenge lies in adapting to the evolving dynamics of ODI cricket. With the game becoming increasingly high-scoring, Kohli needs to strike a balance between his natural, risk-free style and the modern demand for aggressive batting. While his consistency and class are undeniable, he needs to keep evolving to stay ahead of the curve.
The former selector Sanjay Jagdale advised that Kohli should play domestic cricket to maintain match fitness. He stressed that Kohli's chances for the 2027 World Cup will depend on his form and fitness.
Despite these challenges, it's crucial to remember Kohli's phenomenal record in ODI cricket. He stands as the third-highest run-getter in the format, amassing 14,181 runs. His ability to score big runs, including two centuries at the Adelaide Oval, demonstrates his potential to overcome these obstacles.
Ultimately, Kohli's success in this new chapter hinges on his ability to adapt, maintain his fitness, and find opportunities to play regular competitive cricket. While the challenges are real, his champion mindset and dedication suggest that he can still shine brightly in the ODI arena, with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.
