Brad Hogg highlights challenges in Virat Kohli’s performance, pointing to personal commitments and BCCI’s new policies restricting family time during tours.
January 24, 2025: “Virat Kohli Faces ‘Off-Field Drama’: Brad Hogg Weighs In Amid BCCI’s Family Policy Changes”
Virat Kohli’s recent dip in form has sparked widespread discussion, with former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg suggesting that “off-field drama” may be contributing more to his struggles than on-field challenges. The star batter, who managed only 190 runs in 10 innings during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, has faced increased scrutiny following India’s 1-3 series loss.
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In his analysis, Hogg, a member of Australia’s 2003 and 2007 World Cup-winning squads, highlighted how personal commitments, including family responsibilities, could be affecting Kohli’s performance. He further expressed concerns about the BCCI’s new policies limiting family time during international tours.
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BCCI’s New Policies Adding Pressure
The BCCI recently introduced stringent rules for players, including a restriction of just 14 days of family time during overseas tours. This, coupled with expectations to participate in domestic cricket and manage off-field responsibilities, could be adding to the stress on players like Kohli.
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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Hogg noted, “Virat now has a family and other commitments off the field that he didn’t have when he was dominating in all formats. It’s not just cricket; it’s what’s happening outside the game too.”
Hogg believes these restrictions might exacerbate the challenges Kohli faces. “Players should be able to have their families on tour, especially with India’s demanding cricket schedule. This balance is essential for peak performance,” he said.
Decline in Kohli’s Test Performance
Kohli’s form in Tests has been a topic of concern since 2020. Over 39 matches, he has amassed just 2,028 runs at an average of 30.72, with only three centuries in the last three years. During the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, Kohli scored 751 runs in 14 matches at an average of 32.65.
Last year, Kohli played 10 Tests, scoring 417 runs at an average of 24.52, including one century and a single fifty, marking one of his leanest years.
Team Culture and the Role of Gautam Gambhir
Hogg also pointed out that India’s struggles during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy weren’t due to family distractions but potentially linked to the culture within the dressing room under head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff.
“It’s about building the right culture. Families weren’t the problem; it’s the team dynamics and mental space players are in,” he stated.
Future Outlook
As Kohli works to rediscover his form, analysts and fans alike are closely monitoring the impact of BCCI’s policy changes and personal factors on his game. With expectations mounting and challenges growing, the cricketing world awaits Kohli’s return to his dominant best.
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Virat Kohli, Brad Hogg, BCCI family policy, Indian cricket, Border-Gavaskar Trophy, cricket analysis, Anushka Sharma, Test cricket, sports controversy