Virat Kohli has failed to perform well with the bat in the first two matches of the ongoing three-match ODI series between India and Australia.
The former India captain failed to open his account in both the matches. In the first ODI in Perth, he was out for a duck in eight balls and India lost by 7 wickets.
Xavier Bartlett dismissed Virat Kohli
With the series underway, there were a lot of expectations from Virat Kohli in the second ODI at the Adelaide Oval. His track record with the bat in Adelaide is excellent, but he once again failed to live up to the expectations.
Virat Kohli was dismissed by Xavier Bartlett for a duck in four balls as he got out for two consecutive ducks for the first time in his illustrious career. However, his poor performance with the bat was overshadowed by his interesting gesture after his dismissal.
As he was walking back to the pavilion, he raised his gloves to welcome the crowd, sparking speculation about his retirement. Retirement talks are in full swing on social media as fans saw Kohli’s move as a farewell message.
Also read: Virat Kohli ordered to regain form quickly to stay in ICC ODI World Cup 2027 plans
Mohammad Kaif spoke openly on Virat Kohli’s retirement
While only time will tell how things progress, former India batsman Mohammad Kaif has laughed off retirement talks. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said that Virat Kohli will not be retiring from ODIs anytime soon and also revealed the reason behind the legendary batsman’s decision. Kaif also said that Kohli’s performance in the first two ODIs is not a matter of concern.
“No, Virat Kohli will not announce his retirement. He is unlikely to play in Adelaide again. Australia does not tour that often and he does not play Test and T20I cricket. He is not part of the T20I squad for the series after this. Adelaide is one of his favorite grounds and he has made a name for himself there.”
“Even after scoring 0 runs, people clapped for him because Virat Kohli is a player of such stature. He has given the fans a lot to be happy about and they told him he will be their idol, whether you score or not. Kohli accepted that support. He is not going anywhere, nor should he. It is not a big deal that he scored two zeros. No one can question what Kohli has done for Indian cricket. He will go ahead and play. Further,” Kaif said.
Kohli may also find it unusual, as he is playing after Test retirement – Mohammad Kaif
Speaking further, Kaif pointed out that the recent changes in the ODI setup could play a role in Kohli’s poor performance. The former cricketer turned commentator said that the India star should be given enough time to achieve his best form with the bat.
“There is the Sydney match and the ODI series against South Africa at home, followed by the ODI series against New Zealand. There have been some changes in the team, Shubman Gill has become captain, Rohit Sharma is not in the role. Kohli may also feel unusual because he is playing after Test retirement. I think we need to give time to settle things and three ODIs are not enough for that.”
“Even if he gets out cheaply in Sydney, it doesn’t matter. He will play against South Africa and New Zealand. We should wait till the series against New Zealand because the World Cup is in 2027. We should let him play 8-10 matches, then discuss his future.”
Kaif said, “There is a series against South Africa in November and then New Zealand. So there is no need to rush. Those on social media who are asking him to announce his retirement should wait because once said, it cannot be taken back. Take your time before saying anything.”
Well, Kohli will be eagerly waiting for his comeback when India takes on Australia in the third and final ODI of the series on Saturday (October 25). India have already lost the series and will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.
