Kevin Pietersen comes up with solution for Virat Kohli’s lean patch

Former English cricketer turned commentator Kevin Pietersen has opined that under-fire Virat Kohli should take a six-month-long sabbatical from the game. Pietersen feels that on and off-field incidents have taken a toll on the ex-RCB captain. 

Virat, who was honoured with the 'ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year Decade' award (the 2010s), seems to have lost his Midas touch in the past two years. His last international (70th) century came in November 2019. His indifferent form and lack of tons have invited criticism from the cricketing world.

In the ongoing (Indian Premier League) IPL as well, Virat has failed miserably and averages 19.93 after seven games. In the last match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), he fell for a golden duck to a harmless ball outside the off-stump. It was only the first occasion when the former RCB skipper was dismissed on a golden duck, in five years of the tournament.

After relinquishing India's captaincy from all formats of the game, Virat had alluded to the 'immense workload' as the rationale behind his decision.

Speaking on India's ex-captain's lean patch, the English legend commented that Kohli's "brain is completely fried."

"The guy (Virat) has had so much to deal with, from marriage to baby to media scrutiny and all on his personal life."

Pietersen wants the former RCB captain to step away from the game for about six months. Moreover, during this period, he should keep aloof from social media and all its commotion.

"Virat Kohli needs to say 'cricket boots, for six months, I will see you later. Turn off social media, go and get re-energised."

Speaking on Star Sports as a part of the commentary panel, Pietersen also emphasised the need for assuring Kohli.

"When the stadiums are full again, you guarantee him a spot in that side for the next 12, 24 or 36 months. Tell him you're our guy. We know you'll deliver for us."

Further, the South African-born resonated with former Indian head coach Shastri in his solution to VK's rough patch. Shastri had called Kohli 'overcooked' because of the fatigue caused by the bio-bubble. 

RCB, who have five wins out of seven games, would want their former captain to get back into form. The middle and lower order have taken responsibility amidst dismal performances from the top order. But lack of runs from Virat can cost them in the long run.