Virat Kohli, one of India’s most famous cricketers, found himself on the brink of disaster during the opening match of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Kohli’s form of late has been under scrutiny and he almost became a golden duck, having survived a controversial catch decision that would have made him almost certain to be dismissed.
While the TV umpires were reviewing Virat Kohli’s catch, captain Rohit Sharma could be seen looking worriedly at the big screen on the field in the Indian dressing room. #INDvsAUS
A selfless person who always thinks about the team @ImRo45 ______ pic.twitter.com/uzc5OZxRVT—_______45 (@rushiii_12) January 3, 2025
Thrilling moments: Kohli’s brush with golden duck
Kohli’s arrival was much anticipated, especially as India had lost both openers early on day one. Kohli exited with the task of stabilizing the Indian innings. However, his first encounter with Scott Boland’s bowling almost ended in disaster.
On the fifth ball of the eighth over, Kohli pushed the ball outside the stumps and pushed it towards first slip fielded by Steve Smith. Smith made a fine save on the right side but the ball appeared to scrape the ground before being thrown into the air, allowing Marnus Labuschagne to catch it at fourth slip.
Australia is ecstatic and confident that Kohli will be their first ball and if Kohli is dismissed, India will be in trouble. But a third referee, Joel Wilson, ruled the shot ineligible after reviewing multiple replays. The decision was a huge reprieve for Kohli as Smith actually grassed the ball before it was lifted.
The crowd erupted in cheers, with Kohli visibly relieved and smiling wryly, while Smith walked back shaking his head in frustration. This lucky moment could prove crucial for India in the hotly contested final Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Kohli’s Struggle and Need for Redemption
The golden duck escape comes at a crucial time for Kohli, whose recent form has been a topic of discussion. After scoring an impressive century in the first Test at Perth’s Optus Stadium, Kohli’s subsequent performance in the series was far from stellar. He has scored just 7, 11, 3, 36 and 5 runs in his last five innings, making this Test an important opportunity for him to regain his rhythm.
Kohli’s presence in the crease is invaluable given his vast experience and ability to turn the tide in India’s favour. However, his form has been challenged by continued weakness in shots outside off stump and this close call could spark a resurgence or further exacerbate the growing pressure on the former captain.
Early setback for India: Two quick wickets
The Indian team did not get off to a smooth start, losing both their opening matches in the first 13 rounds. The first blow came from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had been outstanding throughout the series, when he was caught by debutant Beau Webster off Boland’s delivery. Webster) caught it and scored only 10 points.
KL Rahul, the vice-captain of the Indian team, also made little contribution and scored only 4 points. Rahul was dismissed on the final ball of the fifth over, providing a simple catch to Sam Konstas, who was defending inside the 30-yard circle. At that stage, India’s score was a precarious 17/2, with Kohli’s survival providing a glimmer of hope.
The impact of this decision on the game
Kohli’s survival means a lot to India. Losing him then would be a huge blow, leaving India with just one consistent batsman in the middle. With Australia leading 2-1 in the five-match series, every run scored by Kohli is crucial not only to the balance of the team but also to his own confidence.
While Smith’s frustration was palpable, the decision also brought some relief to India, especially after a series of controversial decisions went against them. In the long run, decisions like this will affect the morale of the team and for Kohli, this reprieve could be just the spark he needs to deliver a decisive blow in this Test.
Seize the opportunity
As of now, Kohli is still in the lead with 9 runs batted in as India reach 33/2 after 13 overs. Early signs point to a challenging day ahead, with a green pitch and overcast weather giving the Australian pacers the advantage. However, if Kohli can make the most of his lucky escape, his resilience could turn the tide in India’s favour.
With a century in the series opener still fresh in the mind, Kohli gets a chance to once again prove why he is considered one of the best players in the game. His ability to weather the storm and deliver in crucial moments has made him a legend in the world of cricket. Could this reprieve mark a turning point in Kohli’s form? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for him.