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Hanuma Vihari Expects Virat Kohli To Shine In Australia Series, Says 'India Should Not Be Concerned'

Hanuma Vihari Backs Virat Kohli [Source: PTI]Hanuma Vihari Backs Virat Kohli [Source: PTI]

Hanuma Vihari has come forward to defend fellow Indian star cricketer Virat Kohli amid concerns over his recent form. Vihari, who played a pivotal role in India's historic series win in Australia in 2020-21, believes Kohli will rise to the occasion, especially with the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaching later this year.

Virat Kohli has struggled to find his rhythm in 2023. With just 319 runs in 16 matches across all formats and a disappointing average of 18.76, Kohli's performance has raised eyebrows. His solitary fifty this year came during the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa, a match-winning effort that, while commendable, highlights the inconsistency that has plagued him throughout the year.

Vihari acknowledges Kohli's challenges but emphasises the importance of mental preparedness. 

"I wouldn't say crucial. Virat Kohli needs to be in a good state of mind. I know he has not played Tests for a while now. He missed out on the England Test series due to his commitments," Vihari said.

Vihari notes that returning to Test cricket after a break can be a gradual process, requiring time to find one's groove and regain a familiar routine.

Despite Kohli's current slump, Vihari expresses confidence in his teammate’s ability to deliver when it matters most. 

"But coming back to Tests after a while, it takes time to get into your groove, to get that mental space and to have that routine back. India should not be concerned with Virat's form because we know when the real Test comes he will stand up," Vihari added.

Virat Kohli 35 Runs Away From Breaking Tendulkar's Record

As Virat Kohli prepares for the second Test against Bangladesh at Green Park, Kanpur, he is on the cusp of achieving a remarkable milestone. With 26,965 runs in international cricket, he needs just 35 more runs to become the fastest player to reach 27,000 runs, surpassing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, and Ricky Ponting. Tendulkar set this record in 623 innings, while Kohli has achieved his runs in just 593 innings.