Cricket

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian batter, has been enduring a lean patch in recent times. His batting form has been a cause of concern, with the former Indian captain failing to accumulate 100 runs in six innings during the recently concluded Test series against New Zealand. However, as India embarks on the highly anticipated Test series against Australia, expectations are high that Kohli will rediscover his old self and lead the team to success.Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Kohli's "in-the-face" attitude will be crucial in the upcoming series. Shastri expects Kohli to be fired up and ready to take on the challenge of facing the formidable Australian bowling attack. He drew parallels between Kohli and Australian batter Steve Smith, suggesting that both players possess the ability to dominate a series if they get a couple of good knocks under their belt.Shastri also highlighted the importance of a strong start for Kohli. He believes that if Kohli can get off to a good start in the first two or three innings, he can set the tone for the series and help India gain an early advantage.However, the Indian team has faced criticism for its lack of organized warm-up matches ahead of the series. Shastri admitted that he would have preferred to see India's first XI take on a team in an organized contest. However, he also expressed satisfaction with the intra-squad three-day simulation game that the players were involved in.Despite the challenges, Shastri remains confident in India's chances of success in Australia. He believes that the team has the talent and experience to overcome the odds and emerge victorious.

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian cricketer, celebrated his 36th birthday on Tuesday with a low-key celebration at home with his family. In a recent conversation with host Gaurav Kapoor during a promotional event in Mumbai, Kohli shared details of his intimate birthday celebration."This was probably the most chilled-out birthday I've had through all these years," Kohli said. "It was just Anushka (Sharma) and our two kids at home. It was very relaxed."Despite turning a year older, Kohli joked that he didn't feel any wiser. "I don't know about being wiser, but I'm older for sure," he quipped.Kohli's birthday celebration was primarily focused on his daughter, Vamika. "The birthday was basically for my daughter. Happens so when you have kids," he added.The Indian cricket team captain is now preparing to join the squad for their upcoming five-match Test series against Australia, which begins on November 22nd in Perth. Kohli has an impressive record in Australia, averaging 54.08 with 1352 runs from 13 matches, including six centuries and four half-centuries.However, Kohli's recent form has been a cause for concern. He faced criticism after a disappointing series against New Zealand, where he managed only 93 runs. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on the horizon, Kohli will be expected to rediscover his aggressive side and inspire India to bounce back from their whitewash against New Zealand.