Virat Kohlione of the modern legends of cricket, faces an unusual challenge in test cricket, especially during Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. Despite scoring a magnificent century in the first Test in Perth, his subsequent struggles, particularly with off-stump deliveries, have sparked concern and discussion. Given Kohli's status as a match-winner and the cornerstone of India's batting line-up, these questions have naturally drawn comparisons to the challenges faced by cricket's greats of the past.

Kohli's struggles in BGT have caused concern and history has shown that even the greatest players go through testing phases. For Indian fans, Kohli's resurgence is not just hope but expectation — faith that their champion will once again deliver when it matters most. Let's take a close look at three key strategies that can help Kohli rediscover his top form and counter the challenges posed by the Australian bowling attack.

3 ways Virat Kohli can regain his lost mode in Tests

1. Revisiting technique and footwork

Kohli's dismissals in this series have followed a worrying pattern. Bowlers have consistently exploited his penchant for chasing off-stump deliveries, especially in the early stages. This technical lapse often leads to edges on the slip cordon or wicketkeeper, reducing his time at the crease.

Solution: To solve this, Kohli needs to focus on sharpening his technique and perfecting his footwork. This approach includes the following key settings:

Defensive footwork: Kohli has to ensure accurate footwork. Either committing fully forward to face the ball or staying in the game with a flatter bat, he can minimize the half-measures that often lead to problems. The goal is to get into a stable position where he plays the ball late, under the eyes, reducing the chances of a rim.

Selective aggression: Kohli's trademark cover, while elegant and effective, has also become his Achilles' heel when overused. Adopting a more cautious approach, especially against deliveries in the corridor of uncertainty, will enable him to neutralize the bowlers' plans. He should pick his moments to attack, waiting for balls in his scoring zones.

Focused networking sessions: Intensive practice with a clear intention to counter offside deliveries is key. Hitting against bowlers or pitches aimed specifically at the fifth and sixth line of stumps will help Kohli improve his judgment in leaving deliveries outside.

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2. Mental reset and patience

Although the technical shortcomings are obvious, the mental pressure on Kohli cannot be ignored. As an older player and a global superstar, the weight of expectation can amplify the effects of a string of low results. Frustration and the desire to dominate the bowlers early often lead to rash decisions, resulting in avoidable dismissals.

Solution: To regain composure at the crease, Kohli can apply a cricket-specific technical reset that emphasizes clarity and discipline:

Estimated length: Kohli needs to refocus on judging the length of deliveries early. Practicing specific drills, such as facing short-pitched bowling machines or bowlers who repeat deliveries of good length outside the off-stump, will help him sharpen his decision-making to leave balls outside his scoring zone.

Game under the eyes: One of Kohli's strengths has always been his ability to play late. Practicing with softer hands and ensuring the bat face stays down during defensive moves will reduce the chances of edge deliveries.

Drilling Consistency: A technical drill that Kohli could adopt is the 'off-stump discipline drill'. Bowlers or machines constantly aim for the fifth stump, with Kohli focusing on the game only when the ball is on or inside the line of the stumps. Leaving balls out of this area can reinforce discipline and rebuild confidence.

3. Choosing a strategic shot and awareness of the game

Kohli's natural instinct is to dominate the opposition and assert his authority. While this mindset has produced countless match-winning innings in the past, it has also led to premeditated shots that are out of step with the game situation. This desire to attack, especially when under pressure, often plays into the hands of opposition bowlers.

Solution: A more nuanced approach to shot selection and situational awareness can help Kohli counter the Australian attack effectively:

Selection of recordings: Kohli has to prioritize playing the ball on its own merits. While attacking shots remain an integral part of his game, the over-reliance on the cover drive must be reduced. Instead, Kohli can rotate the batting with singles, focus on shots that are less risky and build his innings patiently.

Visualization techniques: Kohli should actively visualize himself playing off-stump deliveries with discipline. The mental rehearsals of leaving the ball, defending hard and hitting only loose deliveries can reshape his instincts during the game.

Adjusting to bowlers: Kohli has excelled in the past at analyzing bowlers and formulating specific strategies against them. Revisiting footage of his successful innings in Australia, where he dominated bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, could remind him of what worked and how he adjusted his game previously.

Learning from a legendary cricketer

It is an outstanding example Sachin TendulkarA legendary double century against Australia in the Sydney Test in 2004. At the time, Tendulkar was struggling with his cover, a shot that often brought him success but also led to his dismissal. Fully aware of this vulnerability, Tendulkar took the extraordinary decision to avoid playing cover altogether during his innings – a move that required immense mental strength and discipline.

Instead, he focused on scoring runs towards the side, patiently waiting for the bowlers to stray into his desired zones. Tendulkar's ability to adapt his natural game under pressure resulted in a monumental unbeaten 241 that not only silenced his critics but also showcased his unmatched temperament, resilience and mastery of the game.

If Kohli adopts a similar mindset of playing within himself, controlling his natural instincts and temporarily prioritizing discipline over flair, he can stabilize his game, regain confidence and put up big innings for the team.

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