Aakash Chopra has shared his views on star Indian batter Virat Kohli’s struggles against the Sri Lankan spinners during the recently concluded three-match ODI series in Colombo.
In the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka, star Indian batsman Virat Kohli managed to score only 24, 14, and 20 runs in the three matches, with a spinner claiming his wicket each time. Despite his reputation as a strong player of spin, Kohli seemed to misjudge both the line and length of deliveries, as pointed out by former cricketer Aakash Chopra. He was dismissed LBW in all three games, and each time, a review was called to challenge the decision.
In the series opener, Wanindu Hasaranga trapped Kohli, while Jeffrey Vandersay and Dunith Wellalage accounted for his dismissals in the second and third matches, respectively. Kohli’s recent struggles against spin, particularly against wrist spinners, have been noticeable over the past couple of years, and this pattern continued against Sri Lanka.
“Virat Kohli lbw three times in three innings against spinners. I don’t remember the last time it happened. He was playing the wrong line and also used up reviews each time. He wasn’t quite able to impose himself in the series,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
The cricketer-turned-commentator also weighed in on Shreyas Iyer’s performance, highlighting his struggles in the series. Iyer made his first appearance since being dropped from the BCCI’s central contract, but he couldn’t leave a significant impact in the three-match series. This was a crucial chance for him to perform well and secure his place in the squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Unfortunately, Iyer managed to score only 38 runs throughout the series.
“Shreyas Iyer is considered a good player of spin, but even he was unable to counter the spinners twice and got dismissed to pace once. If our good players of spin have such performances, not sure why is it happening,” he added.
Chopra also reflected on the Indian bowlers’ inability to wrap up the Sri Lankan innings effectively. In all three matches, Sri Lanka’s lower order stepped up with crucial contributions after their middle order had faltered.
“We weren’t able to close out the innings with the ball. There seemed a sense of complacency that we would get the wickets anyway and if we don’t get the wickets we will chase the runs anyway. The ruthlessness was missing,” Chopra further added.
