India’s renowned batter Virat Kohli was spotted at Mumbai airport on Saturday night as he departed for Australia solo, ahead of the Indian team’s schedule. The five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is set to start on November 22 in Perth, and Kohli’s early departure hints at his determination to acclimate himself to Australian conditions before the critical series.
Amidst a group of enthusiastic fans at the airport, Virat Kohli, seen with his family, took a moment to accommodate fans’ requests for photos, playfully remarking, “family ko rok ke thodi hi na photo lunga tum logon ke sath” (I won’t hold up my family just to take pictures with you all). Despite the late hour, Kohli warmly greeted fans and posed for selfies before making his way through the gates.
Pivotal Series: India vs Australia
This series holds heightened significance for the Indian side, especially following an unexpected home-series loss to New Zealand, which left the team’s path to the World Test Championship (WTC) final hanging in the balance. With only a narrow margin for error, India now needs to win at least four of the five Tests in Australia to secure a spot in the WTC final without relying on other teams’ results.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a battle of giants, with both teams eyeing crucial points on the WTC standings. Australia, traditionally tough on their home turf, will be a formidable opponent, making Kohli’s decision to arrive early a strategic move as he seeks to return to his best form on Australian soil.
Virat Kohli Recent Form
Virat Kohli’s recent home performances have been mixed, with fluctuating scores against Bangladesh and New Zealand in the recent Test series. Over five matches, he managed only a single fifty-plus score, raising questions about his consistency. His early arrival in Australia signals his commitment to honing his form before facing Australia’s powerful bowling line-up.
The rest of the Indian squad will depart in two groups on November 10 and 11, joining Virat Kohli for a preparatory camp ahead of the first Test. With Kohli leading by example, the team will be looking to put their best foot forward and reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia’s backyard.
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