Mike Hesson Sends Stern Warning To Australia Ahead Of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024, Says, 'Virat Kohli Is Focussing On Winning Matches For India, Not Numbers'

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Ex-New Zealand cricketer Mike Hesson emphasized on increased issues around Virat Kohli's form in the longest format. He reckoned that Kohli has reached that stage in his career where his priority is to win matches for the country and not achieve personal milestones. He revealed that this form of Kohli can be quite dangerous for Australia, who would be facing the Men in Blue for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy, which would begin on November 22. Both the fans and the experts have highlighted that his performance among the Fab Four has dipped as he has scored just two centuries in Test cricket since 2019.

"I think Virat Kohli is at that stage in his career where he just wants to try and win games for India. And I think that's a dangerous stage for other sides because if he’s doing that rather than focusing on numbers, the big scores will come naturally. The ability to hold a tempo in Australia is so important—being able to counterattack and knowing the right moments to do so. As mentioned, from 30 to 60 overs is a key phase. If Kohli is batting at that point, he won’t let the game drift. It’s about finding gaps, hitting gaps, getting ones and twos, and then if they try and attack him, then he can counterattack," Mike Hesson was quoted as saying on Jio Cinema.

Can Kohli make a remarkable turnaround?

Kohli made a comeback in the longest format and scored 6 and 17 runs in the series opener against Bangladesh. He then bounced back by scoring a gritty knock of 47 runs off 35 balls and then an unbeaten knock of 29 runs in the second match. Kohli is expected to play a huge role in the Test series against Australia, where he has performed consistently since 2012.

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Hesson highlighted that Kohli was in sublime form although he failed to score big against Bangladesh and that he will redeem himself against teams like New Zealand and Australia.

"He was in fine touch, and even though he didn’t get big scores against Bangladesh, he looked like he was moving well and getting into good positions. After playing in New Zealand, heading to Australia will suit him, as he thrives in those conditions," he revealed.

Kohli's stellar record vs Australia

Kohli has played in 25 Test matches against Australia, where he has scored 2042 runs at a staggering average of 47.48, which also includes eight centuries. Hesson also pointed out that Kohli's role as a veteran would be to help the youngsters, who are playing in Australia for the first time.

"He has the game and knows the conditions very well. The discussions he’ll have with younger players will also be crucial in helping them apply their game to challenge the Australians in the best way possible", he concluded.