Border Gavaskar Trophy: Virat Kohli's weakness exploited on a large scale

The Australian bowlers have dominated Virat Kohli in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, dismissing the star batter cheaply in three of the four innings he has played so far. Pat Cummins and his pace attack have meticulously targeted Kohli’s vulnerability against deliveries around the off-stump line, exploiting this well-known weakness to great effect. Their disciplined bowling has left Kohli struggling to make a significant impact in the series, raising questions about India’s reliance on their experienced campaigner. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has urged the Indian bowling unit to adopt a similar approach against Australia’s in-form batter, Travis Head. Kaif highlighted that Head, like Kohli, has shown discomfort when facing deliveries outside the off-stump.

According to the former cricketer, a targeted strategy from the Indian bowlers could neutralize Head’s influence in the series. Kaif believes the team should focus on replicating the precision and planning exhibited by the Australian attack. He further noted the thoroughness of Australia’s preparation, emphasizing that even a bowler like Scott Boland, who isn’t a regular in their playing XI, is acutely aware of Kohli’s issues with off-stump deliveries. Kaif suggested that this level of attention to detail could be a lesson for India as they seek to counter Australia’s strengths and regain control of the series. With the third Test at The Gabba on the horizon, India’s ability to execute such a strategy might prove pivotal in deciding the course of the series.

"Virat Kohli ki kamzori log pakad ke rakhe huye hai. Off-stump ke bahar ball dalo, wahan out honge (People know Virat Kohli's weakness and hold on to it. Bowl outside the off-stump, he'll get out there)," said Mohammad Kaif in a video posted on his own 'X' (formerly Twitter) account.

"Someone like Scott Boland plays only two or three Tests in a year, but even he knows exactly where you need to bowl to Kohli. You know that Kohli will mess up around the off stump and send a catch to the wicket-keeper or slip cordon. So why can't the Indian bowlers target Travis Head's weakness consistently with proper planning? Why can't we pinpoint Head's weakness and keep bowling outside the off-stump or target him with short balls? Every batter has weaknesses, why can't we plan properly against Travis Head and trap him?" he further added.

Travis Head delivered a scintillating performance in the second Test at the Adelaide Oval, smashing a match-winning 140 off just 141 balls. His aggressive and commanding innings propelled Australia to a series-leveling victory, showcasing why he remains a cornerstone for the World Test Champions. Head’s ability to dominate India’s bowling attack not only set the tone for the game but also highlighted his importance in the middle order for Australia.

In contrast, Virat Kohli’s struggles with the bat have been a concern for India in the ongoing five-match series. While Kohli displayed his class with an unbeaten century in the second innings of the Perth Test, his contributions in the other matches have been underwhelming. Across three other outings, the Indian skipper has managed a mere 23 runs, raising questions about his form and consistency at a crucial juncture in the series. With the series level at 1-1, the focus now shifts to the third Test, which is set to commence on Saturday, December 14, at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. The historic venue, known for its pace and bounce, promises an intense battle as both teams aim to gain an upper hand in this tightly contested series.