Image: Ahead of the third Test, Virat Kohli has had an intensive training session at the net / © NDTV Sports
As the Indian cricket team gears up for the third Test at the Gabba, Virat Kohli’s relentless preparation has caught the spotlight. The Indian batting maestro sweated it out at the nets, fine-tuning his technique against a mix of short, full, and tricky in-between-length deliveries bowled by pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, and net specialists.
The Brisbane nets, located near a public road and the iconic Allan Border statue, witnessed Kohli experimenting with a unique movement pattern. His first step—a quick backward movement, followed by an attempt to push forward with his front shoulder, presented its challenges. While Kohli executed the short and full deliveries with precision, the good-length balls tested his footwork, leading to occasional edges and visible frustration.
Kohli’s session extended longer than his teammates, demonstrating his unwavering focus on improving his approach. Despite some missteps, his determination to overcome the challenges was evident. His adaptability is not new; Kohli has historically modified his stance and movements to counter varied conditions. However, his current approach, resembling a treadmill-like push-and-return pattern, marks an intriguing evolution in his batting technique.
With Australia’s disciplined attack, led by deadly options like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, unlikely to offer many loose deliveries, Kohli’s readiness will be pivotal. As the team finalizes its strategies, Kohli’s intense efforts embody the resilience and preparation necessary to tackle the fierce competition at the Gabba.