IND vs AUS: Is Cricket a Picnic for Virat Kohli?

oi-Indranil Basu

Virat Kohli’s innings in Melbourne wasn’t really a masterclass but it was a hard-fought version of a knock, especially after the controversy surrounding his shoulder nudge to debutant Sam Constas, which had drawn the ire of fans and critics alike.

He had put in the hard yards, battling through a challenging phase and looking as composed as ever at the crease. However, the momentary lapse in concentration, induced by the mix-up with Yashasvi Jaiswal, seemed to shatter his focus. That miscommunication between the two was a rare slip-up, and it appeared to affect Kohli’s judgment.

The delivery he chased was a surprising one, given that he’d successfully avoided such wide deliveries throughout his stay. It was almost as if the mental fatigue from the earlier pressure, combined with the miscommunication, played a part in the loose shot. Kohli’s dismissal was frustrating for many, especially as it came at a time when he had looked set to make a big score, but it also underscored the unpredictable nature of the game, where even the best players can be undone by the smallest of factors.

The pressure surrounding Kohli’s position in Test cricket, especially with Rohit Sharma’s dip in form both as a players and captain and Ashwin’s abrupt exit, is certainly increasing. Kohli, despite his legendary status, finds himself at a crossroads. His place in the team has been questioned, especially with his form sometimes fluctuating, and the narrative around him has shifted from one of dominance to a more reflective role in the side.

The looming milestone of surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries is undeniably a huge motivator for Kohli, and sponsors are undoubtedly keen to capitalize on this iconic achievement. But the pressure also comes with a sense of expectation, not just from fans and critics, but from within his own camp. The comparisons with Tendulkar-who was an unwavering figure in Indian cricket-are both flattering and harsh. Kohli’s challenge now is to maintain his place, not just as a player, but as an anchor in the team.

The notion that Kohli is now more focused on his family and personal life than cricket has gained traction in some circles. His recent life choices, including his more frequent stays in the UK and a perceived shift in priorities, have led some to speculate that cricket might not hold the same all-consuming place in his life as it once did. There’s a perception that cricket, for Kohli now, might have become less of a career and more of a part-time pursuit – something he steps in and out of, with the comforts of family life acting as a counterbalance.

However, this narrative should be viewed with caution. Kohli, even in his moments of introspection, has shown a fierce determination to succeed, particularly in the longer format, where his leadership and experience are invaluable to India’s Test team. If anything, his evolution as a cricketer might signal a more sustainable relationship with the game, where personal life and cricket coexist more harmoniously.

In the end, whether cricket has become a ‘picnic’ or not, Kohli’s commitment and ability to deliver when it matters will define how his career continues to unfold. The real test will come when the pressure of expectations and milestones weigh in, but for now, Kohli is undoubtedly in the midst of navigating a complex phase in his career, balancing legacy, family, and the pursuit of greatness.