‘ Is Virat Kohli Finished?’ For some, the thought of Virat Kohli being “finished” may bring sadness, while others might feel a strange sense of satisfaction. But to both sides of this debate, let it be said: Virat Kohli is not finished yet.
In the second Test match of the ongoing series against New Zealand, the scene was set in Pune. Facing Blackcaps left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, Kohli attempted a sweep shot on a full-toss delivery. The outcome? He was bowled out, and the way he was dismissed reignited the question: is Kohli losing his edge, or even his touch?
Kohli’s unmatched skill against pace hasn’t quite carried over to his play against spin. He struggles with the sweep shot, especially on spin-friendly pitches. His weakness against left-arm spin has become increasingly evident.
Several times before, Kohli has fallen victim to Santner, and this time, it seems, he may have tried to overthink his approach. Perhaps, from the dressing room, he resolved to counter Santner’s threat with a sweep shot—a move he might not typically employ but decided to as an answer.
The sweep is indeed a strong weapon against a left-arm spinner, but it requires understanding the delivery’s merit. Kohli seemed to misjudge this time. Even in the lengthy patience of Test cricket, Kohli risks being outshone if such moments keep arising. This dismissal, even in the whites of a Test match, has again placed him at the crossroads, facing scrutiny.
Will this happen again, fueling talk that “Kohli is finished”? The answer is Only time will reveal if Kohli is truly finished. Ultimately, only Kohli himself can alter that perception.
Kohli is still a great batsman in all formats of this game. He is once in a lifetime talent, there is no doubt about it. His batting prowess is such great that the upcoming tour of Australia could indeed become one of the high points of his Test career. But, like all stars, he, too, may have to face a final curtain call. Which path will he choose – a fading departure or a fierce comeback? As he approaches the twilight of his career, Will he make a final impact before the lights go out?