India vs Australia Perth Test, Sunil Gavaskar: Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar believes that the change in ‘stance’ in the second innings of the first Test match played in Perth helped Virat Kohli blunt the Australian attack and return to form. Kohli was not able to perform as expected in all formats for some time. He was seen struggling on spin-friendly wickets, which raised doubts about his place in the team. But he returned to form by scoring an unbeaten century in the second innings of the first Test match against Australia. Earlier, Kohli had scored his last century against West Indies in July 2023.
Virat Kohli benefits from change in stance
Gavaskar told Star Sports, “When he came out to bat in the second innings, he looked very comfortable. India had lost two wickets early in the first innings and like other players, he was also under pressure.” He said, “Apart from changing the stance in the second innings, he also settled his feet well. I think adjusting to small things helped him get to the position he wanted. Australia’s bouncy pitches But it becomes important for you to pay attention to small things like this.” Gavaskar said, “I really liked the four he hit on Josh Hazlewood at midwicket. It is not easy to play such a shot.”
Matthew Hayden seemed to agree with Gavaskar
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also said that Kohli got the benefit of changing his stance. He said, “Even when touring India, players have to make slight changes in their ‘stance’. I also did the same. But here batting while standing a little straighter means that your head will be in such a position that you will be able to bounce.” You can play the ball well. Doing this gives you an advantage.”
Gavaskar compared Kohli’s recent struggle to the times when tennis greats like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic could not win titles. He said, “While commenting, I had said that if champion players like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal lose in the semi-finals, then people say that they were not in form. If someone else reaches the semi-finals, it is said that What a wonderful performance.”
Gavaskar said, “The same thing applies to Virat Kohli because people expect a century from him all the time. Even if he scores 70 or 80 runs, people will say look he is not able to score runs. Indian fans are greedy.” They are not happy with their star players scoring 70 or 80 runs.”
