Cricket

Virat Kohli, the fiery Indian batter, displayed an uncharacteristic restraint during the first Test against New Zealand. Known for his passionate and aggressive on-field demeanor, Kohli's muted reaction to a controversial dismissal raised eyebrows.In the 89th over of New Zealand's innings, Rachin Ravindra was given out caught behind off Mohammed Siraj's bowling. The entire Indian team erupted in celebration, including umpire Michael Gough. However, replays revealed that the ball had not touched Ravindra's bat, but rather a separate noise had occurred.Commentators Harsha Bhogle and Ian Smith noticed that Kohli, positioned at first slip, remained unmoved throughout the proceedings. Replays confirmed that Kohli had indeed not celebrated, despite the initial jubilation from his teammates.Bhogle remarked that Kohli, known for his expressive nature, was at the top of the list of "most expressive people in the world." He suggested that Kohli's muted reaction may have hinted at his belief that the dismissal was not legitimate.Kohli's restraint stood in stark contrast to his usual on-field persona. As India's former captain, he had earned a reputation for wearing his heart on his sleeve and approaching every game with an aggressive, but fair, demeanor.The incident highlights the complexities of the game of cricket and the importance of fair play. While the Indian team initially celebrated the dismissal, Kohli's muted reaction served as a reminder that the spirit of the game should always prevail.Despite India's strong batting performance on Day 3, they suffered a setback when Kohli was dismissed caught behind on the final ball of the day. India ended the day on 231/3, still trailing New Zealand by a significant margin of 125 runs.

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli's passionate appeal to the Bengaluru crowd on Day 5 of the first Test against New Zealand has ignited social media. With India needing 10 wickets to secure victory, Kohli's animated gestures urging the fans to cheer louder have gone viral.Kohli's leadership and influence were evident as he joined an elite group of cricketers by scoring his 9,000th Test run during the match. His fluent 70 on Day 3 showcased his class and determination, especially after being dismissed for a duck in the first innings.Kohli's partnership with Sarfaraz Khan (136 runs) revived India's innings, highlighting his ability to adapt and contribute in different batting positions. His half-century off 70 balls included five boundaries and a majestic six, reaching the 9,000-run milestone in 197 innings.Kohli's achievement places him among the greats of the game, becoming the 18th player to reach 9,000 Test runs. He joins Joe Root and Steve Smith as the only active players in this exclusive club, and is the fourth Indian to achieve the feat after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.Kohli's next target is to surpass Graeme Smith on the all-time run-scoring list, while within the Indian context, he needs 1,100 more runs to overtake Gavaskar for third place. With two more Tests against New Zealand and a five-Test series in Australia on the horizon, Kohli is poised to continue his ascent in the rankings.Kohli's passionate appeal to the crowd and his remarkable achievement on the field have once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the sport and his ability to inspire both his teammates and the fans.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian cricketer, has always held Test cricket in the highest regard, considering it the ultimate test of a player's skill, character, and mental fortitude. Throughout his illustrious career, Kohli has consistently emphasized the unique challenges posed by the longest format of the game, which demands adaptability, resilience, and unwavering focus.Beyond his exceptional batting prowess, Kohli's on-field demeanor has become synonymous with his aggressive and passionate approach to the game. One of his signature gestures is the energetic crowd interaction, where he turns towards the stands and pumps up the spectators, urging them to amplify their support. This act of rallying the crowd is a testament to Kohli's deep connection with fans and his ability to harness their energy to fuel his own performance and that of the team.Kohli's crowd interaction is particularly evident during pivotal moments in matches, especially in high-pressure situations. Whether it's encouraging support during a crucial partnership, celebrating a key wicket, or raising the energy during tense periods, Kohli's ability to involve the fans plays a significant role in creating an intense atmosphere. His charisma and emotional expressions on the field not only lift the morale of the team but also amplify the excitement in the stadium.This crowd interaction is one of the many reasons Kohli has such a strong bond with Indian cricket fans, who see him as not just a player but a passionate leader who thrives on the collective energy of the team and the spectators. His ability to connect with the crowd and channel their support into his own performance is a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and his deep understanding of the game.

Virat Kohli's return to form in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru has ignited hope among Indian cricket fans. After a prolonged slump, Kohli's well-crafted 70-run knock marked a significant milestone in his Test career.Kohli's struggles in Test cricket had become a major concern, with his last fifty coming in 2022. His inability to counter outside-off deliveries from pacers and off-spinners had been a recurring issue. However, against New Zealand, Kohli showcased his vintage form, executing flawless cover drives and displaying impeccable timing.The knock was crucial not only for Kohli's personal confidence but also for India's match situation. After being dismissed cheaply in the first innings, Kohli's contribution in the second innings helped India build a substantial lead.Kohli's resurgence is a timely boost for India, who have a busy Test schedule ahead. The team will face New Zealand in the remaining two Tests before embarking on a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Kohli's impressive record against Australia on their home turf bodes well for India's chances.Despite his recent form, Kohli's overall numbers in Test cricket since the launch of the World Test Championship in 2019 have been underwhelming. He ranks 13th on the list of most runs scored, with an average of 38.77. However, his performance in the current ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 has been more encouraging, with an average of 48.90.As India aims to secure their maiden WTC title, Kohli's continued form will be crucial. His experience and ability to score runs in challenging conditions will be invaluable for the team.

India's spirited fightback on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru was overshadowed by Virat Kohli's unfortunate dismissal off the last ball of the day. Kohli, who reached the milestone of 9,000 Test runs during his innings, shared a 136-run partnership with Sarfaraz Khan, who remained unbeaten on 70 at the close of play.India's second innings began with a solid opening stand of 72 between Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52). However, spinner Ajaz Patel made inroads into the Indian top order, dismissing both openers. Rohit's dismissal came shortly after he had smashed Matt Henry for a sequence of four, six, and four to bring up his half-century.The day belonged to New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra, who scored his second Test century and was the last man out in the tourists' first innings total of 402. Ravindra, resuming on his overnight score of 22, reached his hundred with a boundary off Ravichandran Ashwin before lunch. He shared a crucial 137-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Tim Southee, who contributed a quickfire 65.India's pace duo of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah struck early in the morning session, while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav claimed three wickets each. The hosts were without the services of wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who remained off the field after injuring his knee. Dhruv Jurel took over as the substitute wicketkeeper.India's second innings got off to a solid start, with Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan putting on a century partnership. Kohli reached his fifty at his adopted home ground, where he represents the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. However, his dismissal off the last ball of the day to Glenn Phillips, caught behind by Tom Blundell, left India at 231 for three at stumps, still trailing the Black Caps by 125 runs.

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian batsman, has etched his name into the annals of Test cricket history by becoming the fourth Indian to surpass the 9000-run mark. This remarkable achievement was reached on the third day of the opening Test match against New Zealand in Bengaluru on October 18, 2024.Kohli joined an elite group of Indian cricketers who have scaled this milestone, including Sachin Tendulkar (15921), Rahul Dravid (13265), and Sunil Gavaskar (10122). However, Kohli's journey to this landmark was the slowest among them, taking 197 innings.The 35-year-old Kohli reached the milestone after crossing his half-century in India's second innings. Batting at No. 3, Kohli had fallen for a nine-ball duck in the first innings as India were dismissed for a paltry 46.Kohli's achievement is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional batting skills. He has consistently been a pillar of strength for the Indian team, anchoring the batting lineup and guiding them to numerous victories.In the recent Test series against Bangladesh, Kohli became the quickest batter to complete 27,000 international runs in only 594 innings. This remarkable feat further solidifies his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.Kohli's achievement has been met with widespread praise and admiration from the cricketing fraternity. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar hailed Kohli as "a true legend of the game," while current Indian skipper Rohit Sharma called him "an inspiration to all young cricketers."As Kohli continues to grace the cricket field, he is poised to break even more records and cement his legacy as one of the most prolific batsmen in the history of the sport.

Virat Kohli's Resurgence: A Milestone and a Lifeline for IndiaVirat Kohli, the former Indian captain and batting maestro, has finally broken his century drought in Test cricket, marking his return to form with a crucial half-century in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand.Kohli's 52-run knock came at a time when India desperately needed a stabilizing force after losing early wickets. His innings was a testament to his resilience and determination, as he weathered the storm and played with the composure of a seasoned veteran.With this half-century, Kohli became the fourth Indian batter to surpass 9,000 runs in Test cricket, joining the illustrious ranks of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. However, Kohli's journey to this milestone was the longest among the quartet, taking him 197 innings to reach the coveted mark.Kohli's resurgence is a welcome sight for Indian cricket fans, who have been eagerly awaiting his return to his dominant form. His half-century has not only boosted India's chances in the ongoing Test but has also reignited hopes of a successful World Test Championship campaign.The Indian team has been struggling for consistency in recent months, and Kohli's return to form could be the catalyst they need to turn their fortunes around. His experience, leadership, and ability to score runs in all conditions make him an invaluable asset to the side.As India prepares for the second Test against New Zealand, Kohli will be expected to continue his good form and guide the team to victory. His return to form is a timely boost for India, who will be looking to secure a series win and consolidate their position in the World Test Championship standings.

Virat Kohli's struggles in Test cricket continued in 2024, as he was dismissed for a duck in the first innings against New Zealand. Despite his poor form, Kohli's decision to promote himself to No. 3 in the batting order due to Shubman Gill's absence drew praise from former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar.Manjrekar hailed Kohli's willingness to sacrifice his usual No. 4 slot, claiming that it set him apart from legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly. According to Manjrekar, Tendulkar and Ganguly were reluctant to move up the order in Tests, unlike Kohli."Hats off to Virat Kohli!" Manjrekar posted on social media. "Coming out to bat at no. 3 because the team needed it. Ganguly, Tendulkar were very keen to open in white ball cricket, but never wanted to go up the order in Tests. That's a true champion right there for you!"However, Manjrekar also criticized Kohli's aggressive approach from the first ball, which he believes has contributed to his recent struggles."Have said this before will say it again," Manjrekar tweeted. "Virat has compounded his problems by wanting to be on the front foot to every ball. No matter the length. Today's dismissal ball could have been comfortably tackled off the back foot."Manjrekar's comments sparked a debate about the batting positions of Tendulkar and Ganguly. While Tendulkar primarily batted at No. 4 in Tests, Ganguly had a significant number of innings at No. 3 earlier in his career.Tendulkar scored the vast majority of his Test runs at No. 4, with only 15 runs coming from the top three positions. Ganguly, on the other hand, scored 752 of his 7,212 Test runs at No. 3, while only 11 runs came as an opener.Ultimately, the decision of whether to move up the order in Tests is a personal one for each player. While some, like Kohli, are willing to sacrifice their preferred position for the benefit of the team, others may prefer to stay in their comfort zone.

India's Slip-Up: Missed Chance Haunts Bowlers in Bengaluru TestIndia's bowlers were dealt a cruel blow on Day 2 of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru when a glaring fielding error allowed New Zealand captain Tom Latham to escape unscathed.With India reeling from a dismal 46-run first innings total, their bowlers desperately needed early wickets to claw their way back into the match. In the 13th over, Mohammed Siraj delivered a short-of-length delivery that induced an edge from Latham's bat. The ball flew towards the slips, where Virat Kohli and KL Rahul were stationed at first and second slip, respectively.To the astonishment of everyone, both fielders hesitated and the ball slipped through their grasp, racing to the third man fence. The catch was a routine one at the international level, and the lapse in concentration proved costly for India.Rahul, who had earlier scored a duck with the bat, later suggested that he had not spotted the ball well. However, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who was commentating on the match, suggested that the revamped slip cordon, due to the absence of Shubman Gill, may have contributed to the missed chance.India captain Rohit Sharma, already facing criticism for his decision to bat first after winning the toss, was visibly frustrated by the fielding error. He threw his arms in disgust, expressing his disappointment with the team's performance in the field.The missed chance proved to be a turning point in the match, as Latham went on to score a crucial 95 runs, helping New Zealand build a substantial lead. India's bowlers toiled hard but were unable to make further inroads into the New Zealand batting lineup, and the visitors eventually declared their innings at 348/10.India's fielding woes continued throughout the match, with several other dropped catches and misfields. The team's poor fielding performance added to their batting woes, leaving them in a precarious position as they head into the second innings.