Perth Test, Australia vs India: After all the hype, Virat Kohli fails as bold move backfires on first day

Former India captain Virat Kohli’s bad fortune continued as a return to his favorite hunting ground, Australia, did not change his fortunes. Kohli was dismissed for just five runs in the first innings of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth on Friday, November 22.

Ever since Virat Kohli landed in Perth, he has been in the spotlight thanks to a group of Australian media put it on the front page special issue. Several former Australian cricketers have spoken highly of Kohli despite his dismal form in the longest format of the game in 2024. Many of them warned the Australian players against provoking Kohli, warning them to stay away from his confrontational side.

AUS vs IND 1st Test Day 1 Live

However, things quickly went south when Kohli fell victim to an extra bounce off Josh Hazlewood during morning practice at the Optus Stadium. Kohli looked far from comfortable during his 12-ball stint at the crease. After making just five runs, he fell to a smart delivery from Hazlewood in the 13th over.

Kohli made a bold decision to bowl well outside the crease in an attempt to negate the movement that the Australian bowlers were extracting. His intention was to play on the front foot, but the extra bounce on offer at the Optus Stadium canceled it out.

Noticing Kohli’s position outside the off-stump, Hazlewood sent the ball short. Kohli found himself in no man’s land when the ball came at him, caught the edge and was comfortably bowled by Usman Khawaja.

Noted cricket analyst Ben Jones highlighted the risk of Kohli’s approach, which he has used several times in his career.

“Virat Kohli’s catch average in this innings was the furthest in his Test career. That’s what he always does when he’s under pressure – fire with fire. Although, given its shape, it’s definitely worth a try,” Jones noted. in a message on X.

Even though Kohli averaged over 50 with six centuries in Australia, he faces a tough series given his recent form. Earlier this year, he managed just 93 runs during India’s shock 0-3 defeat at home against New Zealand and then struggled to cope with spin.

India were in trouble at 32 for 3 in the 17th over. Having won the toss and chosen to bat, the Indian top order was beaten by the quality of the Australian pacers. Yashasvi Jaiswal was out in the third over attempting an expansive shot while Devdutt Padikkal showed little intention during his 23-ball stint before being dismissed for 0.

K.L. Rahul, however, showed resilience, combining caution with the ability to punish missed deliveries, allowing India to avoid a complete collapse in the first session.