Virat Kohlione of India's greatest cricketing icons, has seen mixed fortunes in international cricket during 2023 and 2024. While 2023 was a year of dominance and brilliance, 2024 witnessed a significant decline in his performance, sparking discussions about his level and future.
2023: The year of mastery
Kohli was at the peak of his powers in 2023, playing 35 matches and scoring 2,048 runs in 36 innings. With an incredible average of 66.06 and a strike rate of 78.31, Kohli has cemented his place as a great player of the modern era. His batting prowess was highlighted by 8 centuries and 10 half-centuries, including a highest score of 186. Remarkably consistently, he registered just one duck throughout the year, demonstrating his ability to deliver hits under pressure.
2024: the year of struggle
In stark contrast, 2024 has seen Kohli struggle with form and consistency. Playing 23 matches and batting in 32 innings, he managed only 655 runs at a modest average of 21.83. His strike rate also dropped slightly to 73.34, indicating struggles against bowlers of different formats. Kohli could only muster one century and two half-centuries in the year, and did not go beyond the highest score of 100. Adding to his woes was the fact that he scored 4 ducks, which is rare for a batting maestro.
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Compare form and effect
The stark difference between the two years has been the subject of much debate among fans and experts. In 2023, Kohli has been the backbone of India's batting line-up, often carrying the team on his shoulders with big scores and match-winning performances. His ability to turn starts into big innings was unparalleled, making him one of the world's most feared batsmen.
On the other hand, 2024 was a difficult period for Kohli. With fewer impactful innings and a noticeable struggle to adapt to conditions and bowling attacks, his form has come under the microscope. The decrease in pods and the increase in low scores highlight the need for reflection and adaptation.
While Kohli's decline in form in 2024 is worrying, his career has shown time and again that he thrives under pressure. As one of the most determined cricketers of his era, fans and pundits will be keen to see how the Delhi boy fares again in the upcoming matches. With the cricket calendar in India packed with high-profile series and tournaments, Kohli's resurgence could be crucial to the team's success.
