Champions Trophy: Virat Kohli’s Struggles Exposed as India Prepares for Pakistan Clash: Manjrekar’s Brutal Assessment

The star batter’s vulnerability against spin is a growing concern ahead of India’s high-stakes Champions Trophy match against Pakistan.

February 21, 2025: India’s Strong Start Overshadowed by Kohli’s Struggles

India began their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a dominant six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Dubai. Shubman Gill’s century and Mohammed Shami’s five-wicket haul were the highlights, but Virat Kohli’s struggles against spin became a major talking point.

Also Read: Champions Trophy: “Team With Better Balance Will Have Edge”, Says Inzamam Ahead Of India, Pakistan Clash

Kohli managed just 22 runs off 38 balls, playing 20 dot deliveries and failing to rotate strike efficiently. He struggled significantly against leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, eventually getting out while attempting an aggressive cut shot.

Manjrekar’s Verdict: Kohli Lacks the ‘Big Game’ Factor

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar did not hold back in his assessment of Kohli’s performance. Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, he compared the veteran batter’s approach to that of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, pointing out a clear decline in Kohli’s power game.

Also Read: Virat Kohli’s Struggles Worsened By Trying Too Hard, Says Anil Kumble

“Virat Kohli’s confidence is clearly down. He wants to show that he’s still up for a fight. But Rohit still has the big game—he steps out, hits over extra cover, plays the pull shot, takes chances. Kohli doesn’t have that anymore. Occasionally, he plays a big shot, but he can’t act. Will he hit a shot like Shubman Gill?”

Manjrekar’s remarks highlight a key concern—while Kohli remains a technically sound batter, he is struggling to dominate spinners, something crucial for India as they gear up for the highly anticipated match against Pakistan.

Also Read: Champions Trophy: KL Rahul Sacrificed His 50 to Aid Shubman Gill Reach Century Against Bangladesh-Fans Applaud

Why Kohli Needed Flat Pitches in Pakistan

Manjrekar also suggested that Kohli would have benefited from batting on Pakistan’s flat pitches rather than the spin-friendly conditions in Dubai.

“When Kohli comes in to bat, the spinners attack him immediately. They know he won’t hit them for three sixes straight down the ground. Rohit, KL Rahul, and Gill can do it. He needed Pakistan’s flat pitches with more pace, but in Dubai, it’s going to be tough.”

Kohli’s lack of boundary options against spin and inability to rotate strike efficiently make him a prime target for Pakistan’s spinners, potentially putting India at risk in their upcoming encounter.

What’s Next?

With the blockbuster India vs Pakistan clash approaching, all eyes will be on Kohli and whether he can overcome his struggles against spin. His form will be crucial for India’s batting lineup, and if he finds a way back to his best, it will be a testament to his resilience as a player.

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