'Aakhiri Wala Toh Short Leg Ka Catch Tha,': Jasprit Bumrah Teases Virat Kohli In Nets Ahead Of 2nd Test
Virat Kohli practising in Kanpur [PTI]
Virat Kohli's return to Test cricket was highly anticipated, with many fans hoping for a revival of his iconic form. However, his recent outings left many fans concerned. After eight months of a long break from red-ball cricket,
Kohli returned to the game in the first Test match against Bangladesh in Chennai, only to register scores of 6 and 17. His return raised questions about his consistency in the longest format of the game.
Ahead of the second and final Test against Bangladesh, Team India was seen practising hard during the net practice session at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium, where Kohli was seen struggling, highlighting his ongoing challenges.
According to Indian Express, Kohli faced off against India’s premier pacer, Jasprit Bumrah. The two have been teammates for years, but on this occasion, Bumrah did not hold back. Kohli initially started well, playing a few stylish cover drives that reminded onlookers of his prowess. But the tables quickly turned when Bumrah found his rhythm, testing Kohli with his pinpoint accuracy.
Bumrah managed to beat Kohli’s bat multiple times and eventually trapped him in front of the stumps, calling out confidently, “saamne laga hai (You are plumb)” Kohli acknowledged the shout but struggled to regain his footing. Bumrah continued his relentless attack and teased Kohli by saying, “Aakhiri wala toh short leg ka catch tha (The short leg would have caught that last one).”
After his battle with Bumrah, Kohli faced India’s spin trio: Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Axar Patel. The once-dominant batter appeared uncomfortable against the spin, especially when facing Jadeja. Kohli attempted to play an inside-out shot but missed it three times in a row, visibly frustrated. Axar Patel ultimately bowled him out, sealing the end of Kohli’s difficult net session.
How Well Virat Kohli Has Performed In The Year 2024?
Despite his glorious career, 2024 has been challenging for the batting legend, with his stats reflecting a drop in form. So far, in 17 innings this year, Kohli has scored 319 runs at a below-par average of 18.76, with only one half-century to his name.