Has Virat Kohli actually lost his prime in Test cricket?

Former England cricketer David Lloyd has made a bold statement regarding the future of Virat Kohli in Test cricket, suggesting that the legendary Indian batter's time in the longest format may have come to an end. Kohli, who has been one of India's most prolific run-scorers across all formats, has struggled with the bat in recent Test matches. This season, he has managed just 382 runs from 19 innings, at a disappointing average of 22.47, raising concerns about his form and consistency in red-ball cricket. Kohli's recent tour of Australia further highlighted his ongoing issues. Throughout the five-match series, the former India captain was repeatedly found wanting against deliveries pitched outside the off-stump, a weakness that the Australian bowlers exploited ruthlessly.

Despite multiple opportunities to address this flaw, Kohli failed to make the necessary adjustments, resulting in all his dismissals being either caught behind the stumps or in the slip cordon. The struggle for form in Test cricket has led to increasing speculation about Kohli's future in the format. While his reputation and legacy in world cricket are undeniable, his recent performances have cast a shadow over his place in India's Test lineup. As the debate continues, many are questioning whether Kohli’s time in Test cricket is nearing its conclusion or if he can bounce back to rediscover his old form.

After a prolonged lean patch in Test cricket, Virat Kohli's place in the Indian side has come under scrutiny. His recent struggles, particularly against deliveries outside the off-stump, have led to growing questions about his ability to succeed in the longest format. Despite being one of India’s greatest batters, Kohli has not been able to replicate his past dominance in Test cricket, and his recent performances have raised concerns about his future in the format.

India is set to tour England in June for a challenging five-match Test series, and Kohli's vulnerability outside the off-stump could be an area of exploitation for the English bowlers, especially someone like Gus Atkinson, known for his pace and movement. With England's seam attack in top form, this series presents a critical test for Kohli’s Test career. As the team prepares for the upcoming series, many will be closely watching Kohli’s response to the mounting pressure. Can he overcome his technical shortcomings and rediscover his Test batting form, or will he continue to struggle in the face of relentless opposition bowling? The outcome of the England tour may well determine Kohli’s future in Test cricket.

"Virat Kohli knows he is past his best and that will hurt. When India come to England, you know where he's going to be. Just outside off stump, and the business area will be the slips. At 36 years of age, up in the mind, he knows what he should be doing. Your reflexes gently go. Ponting said he carried on a bit longer than he usually would have. The selectors should know. He is one of the greatest players we have seen but is past his best. The coach Gautam Gambhir will have an enormous say, a big say, because he has been in that dressing room. He has lost time. His time is over," said former England cricketer David Lloyd. 

"The one thing when you talk about great cricketers, that the rest haven't, is time. He has lost time. It's gone. His time's gone. It comes with age. Everyone tells you what you need to be doing. Stuff like 'leave the ball' watch it till the end. But it's gone. These are great international bowlers. If it's a repetitive way of getting out – in Test match you know there's going to be a bank of slips'. If you keep nicking off, it's a tell-tell sign for anybody that reflexes and reaction time is gone,” he added.