Former India captain and coach Anil Kumble believes Virat Kohli is putting too much pressure on himself, making it harder to regain form. Kohli has struggled since the 2023 World Cup, scoring only 137 runs in six ODI innings, with a lone half-century. In India’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh, he managed 22 off 38 balls before falling to legspinner Rishad Hossain in Dubai.
Kumble noted that Kohli’s lean patch in white-ball cricket is unusual, leading him to try too hard. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo Match Day, Kumble explained that experienced players often feel the weight of expectations, making them overthink their approach. He stressed that Kohli needs to relax and focus on his natural game, just as Rohit Sharma does with freedom due to India’s strong batting lineup.
Kohli’s recent struggles have come primarily against spin, with his last six dismissals against slower bowlers, including five to legspin. Kumble pointed out that Kohli, usually a good player of spin, is overcomplicating things instead of playing his usual rotation-based approach.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar also weighed in, stating that Kohli no longer possesses the same big-hitting ability as players like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. He noted that Kohli’s confidence dipped after a rough Test series in Australia, making him hesitant against spinners. Manjrekar believes that spinners now attack Kohli more aggressively, knowing he isn’t as threatening with big shots.
With slow, turning pitches likely in the remaining matches, Kohli faces a tough challenge. However, Manjrekar suggested that if he overcomes this phase and rediscovers his form, it will highlight his resilience and determination.
