Virat Kohli told to avoid 'arguing with himself' after Perth ODI flop show; 'he is destructive when he has clarity'

The off stump deliveries have created a lot of problems for Virat Kohli in his career. During the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli got out while chasing deliveries outside the off-stump on eight occasions out of nine innings, an issue that has become a topic of debate among all. Fast forward to last Sunday, Kohli was again dismissed in similar fashion in Perth off the bowling of Mitchell Starc in the first ODI. Having already retired from Tests and T20Is, Kohli returned to Indian colors after more than seven months. Responding to a length ball that rose in the off, Kohli went for a big drive away from his body only for Cooper Connolly to take a flying catch at backward point for an eight-ball duck. It was Kohli’s first ever ODI duck on Australian soil. Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden opined that Kohli must refrain from “overthinking” if he wants to come back between runs. “Virat Kohli’s hitting ability and touch points are exceptional. Having scored 14,000 runs in this format, there is little doubt about his approach as he consistently plays the ball on the rise and finds timing early,” Hayden told Star Sports. “One thing I hope he avoids is arguing with himself and overthinking, which can lead to mistakes. He is destructive when he has clarity, certainty and the ability to read the game – qualities that his experience offers,” added Hayden, who has been regarded as one of the most destructive openers in world cricket. Sunil Gavaskar backs Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma The last time Kohli played for India was during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. His last competitive game was during the Indian Premier League final when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Punjab Kings to lift their first title in 18 seasons. Like Kohli, Rohit Sharma was also dismissed for eight. The legendary Sunil Gavaskar supported the duo despite their flop performance in Perth. “They played on probably the most bouncy pitch in Australia. It’s not going to be easy, especially for players who haven’t played international cricket for a few months,” Gavaskar told India Today. The former Indian captain believed that both Kohli and Rohit will be short of runs in the last two ODIs. “India are still a very, very good team. They won the Champions Trophy. Don’t be surprised if Rohit and Kohli score big in the next two matches. They are coming back after a few months away from international cricket,” Gavaskar opined further.