Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricketing icons, experienced contrasting fortunes in international cricket across 2023 and 2024. While 2023 was a year of dominance and brilliance, 2024 saw a significant dip in his performance, sparking discussions about his form and future.
2023: A Year of Mastery
Kohli was at the peak of his powers in 2023, playing 35 matches and scoring a mammoth 2,048 runs across 36 innings. With an incredible average of 66.06 and a strike rate of 78.31, Kohli cemented his status as a modern-day great. His batting prowess was highlighted by 8 centuries and 10 half-centuries, including a top score of 186. Remarkably consistent, he registered only a single duck throughout the year, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
2024: A Year of Struggle
In stark contrast, 2024 saw Kohli grappling with form and consistency. Playing 23 matches and batting in 32 innings, he managed just 655 runs at a modest average of 21.83. His strike rate also dropped slightly to 73.34, signalling struggles against bowlers in different formats. Kohli could muster only 1 century and 2 half-centuries in the year, with a highest score of 100 not out. Adding to his woes, he recorded 4 ducks, a rare occurrence for the batting maestro.
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A Comparison of Form and Impact
The stark difference between the two years has been the subject of much debate among fans and experts. In 2023, Kohli was the backbone of India’s batting lineup, often carrying the team on his shoulders with big scores and match-winning performances. His ability to convert starts into big innings was unmatched, making him one of the most feared batters globally.
In contrast, 2024 has been a challenging period for Kohli. With fewer impactful innings and a noticeable struggle to adapt to conditions and bowling attacks, his form has come under scrutiny. The drop in centuries and an increase in low scores highlight the need for introspection and adjustment.
While Kohli’s dip in form in 2024 is concerning, his career has shown time and again that he thrives under pressure. As one of the most determined cricketers of his era, fans and critics will be eager to see how the Delhi-lad bounces back in the coming matches. With India’s cricketing calendar packed with high-profile series and tournaments, Kohli’s resurgence could prove crucial for the team’s success.
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