India’s upcoming tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is generating significant attention, especially following the recent 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand at home. A major concern from that series was the batting performance, particularly against New Zealand’s spin attack, where the Indian lineup struggled to make an impact.
Senior batsmen faced particular scrutiny, with Rohit Sharma managing only 91 runs across six innings and Virat Kohli slightly edging him with 93 runs in what can be described as a disappointing outing for both players.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan shared his insights on this situation with Fox Sports, emphasizing that the current form of these senior players is not sustainable for achieving success in Australia. “For India to win here, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must score big runs and return to their best form. I hope they do, but I fear they won’t,” he stated.
Vaughan highlighted that while Sharma and Kohli are expected to lead the batting lineup, their age may reveal weaknesses in their game. “Facing an Australian attack regarded as one of the best in history requires solid technique and a strong mentality,” he noted.
Although he acknowledged the importance of runs from Sharma and Kohli, Vaughan also pointed out that India’s previous success in Australia was due to a well-rounded team effort, including effective bowling and contributions from the entire batting order. “In the last series they won, Kohli wasn’t there to chase down a target at the Gabba, where Australia hadn’t lost a Test match in 32 years,” he remarked.
Vaughan expressed concern regarding Kohli’s current form, citing a notable incident where Kohli missed a full toss from Mitchell Santner, a sign that he is struggling. “That’s not the Virat Kohli we know. He seems to be fighting for form at the moment,” Vaughan concluded.
Kohli’s recent Test average of 33 over the past five years has raised alarms among fans and analysts alike, as it falls short compared to his peers in the ‘Fab Four’ and his Indian teammates. As the tour approaches, Kohli will be eager to rediscover the exceptional form he displayed in past Australian tours to reinvigorate his Test career.
