In the ongoing home series against New Zealand, Virat Kohli has managed only 88 runs across four innings, with 70 of those runs coming in a single knock, underscoring his ongoing struggles in Test cricket. This prompted advice from former teammate Dinesh Karthik, who, during a discussion on Cricbuzz, suggested that Kohli might benefit from returning to domestic cricket. India has already lost the first two Tests, surrendering the series, and now faces the daunting possibility of a rare home whitewash.
New Zealand secured a historic first Test series win in India by defeating the hosts by 113 runs in Pune. Kohli struggled against left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, scoring only 1 and 17 in the two innings. “Left-arm spinners have always posed a significant challenge,” noted Karthik, who retired earlier this year. “This series has been tough for Kohli; he’s faced challenges in three of the four innings. Spinners have repeatedly troubled him, and I’m sure he’ll work to come back stronger.” Karthik further remarked, “He is searching for answers. When you reach a level of genius and superstardom, challenges arise, and he’s currently facing one. India likes spin-friendly pitches, so what’s his game plan?”
India’s batting lineup faltered, with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal’s aggressive 77 in the second innings standing as the lone half-century. The team was bowled out for 156 and 245 in their two innings, with captain Rohit Sharma also struggling, scoring only 0 and 8.
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Karthik suggested that Kohli, whose recent Test performances against spin have been less impressive, needs to refine his strategy against spin bowlers. “We know what he’s capable of, but it hasn’t been happening for some time. Fans have noted this, and we need to objectively assess his performance. Kohli’s recent Test record against spin over the past 2-3 years hasn’t been great,” he stated. The third and final Test of the series is set to begin in Mumbai on November 1.