Virat Kohli’s popularity among fans remains extraordinary, even during his recent struggles on the cricket field. As he approaches his 36th birthday on November 5, the admiration and loyalty of his fans continue to shine through. One such testament to this unwavering support was a heartwarming gesture from an ardent fan who gifted him a hand-painted portrait of Hanuman ji. This thoughtful present was personally delivered to Kohli’s hotel room in Mumbai, showcasing the special connection he shares with his followers.
Virat Kohli gets Hanuman ji’s poster by fan – Watch Viral Video
A fan gifted the Lord Hanuman Ji Portrait to Virat Kohli in Mumbai.🙏
– THIS IS BEAUTIFUL..!!!! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/BzQFdcF19h
— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) November 4, 2024
A Thoughtful Gesture
Known for expressing his spiritual side lately, Kohli must have been deeply touched by this meaningful gift. He has always shown appreciation for his fans’ love, frequently acknowledging their support with warm gestures that make them feel valued. This bond between Kohli and his admirers remains strong, regardless of his form on the field. His gratitude fosters a unique relationship that keeps his supporters rooting for him through thick and thin.
Celebrating a Special Moment
Kohli appeared elated as he interacted with the fan and received the gift at the Indian team’s hotel room. Despite the joy of this encounter, it’s important to note that Kohli’s performance in the recently concluded 3-match Test series against New Zealand was not up to his usual standards. India faced a disappointing 0-3 clean sweep against New Zealand on home soil, marking a historic low for Indian cricket.
Scrutiny of Kohli’s Recent Form
As a result of this series, Kohli, alongside captain Rohit Sharma, has faced scrutiny regarding his position on the team. During India’s home Test season, the 35-year-old managed to score only 192 runs in 10 innings, with an average of just 21.33 and only one half-century to his name. This sharp decline in form, particularly against spin bowling, has been alarming. Since 2020, his average against spin in India has dropped dramatically from 72.45 (2013-2019) to 32.86. Out of 57 dismissals in this timeframe, 24 have come against spin bowlers.
Challenges Against Spin Bowling
Kohli’s struggles against left-arm spin have been particularly concerning. His average against left-arm spinners stands at just 20.41, with 12 of his 58 total dismissals since 2020 attributed to this type of bowler. In the recent home season, he was dismissed four times by left-arm spinners, including one each to Shakib Al Hasan and Ajaz Patel, and twice to Mitchell Santner. These statistics highlight the challenges Kohli faces, raising questions about his ability to adapt and overcome in critical situations.
Looking Ahead: The Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Despite the recent setbacks, hopes remain high for Kohli in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Fans and experts alike are aware of his impressive Test record on Australian soil. In 25 Test matches against Australia, Kohli has scored 2,042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries. This track record gives fans confidence that Kohli can bounce back and regain his form in this crucial series.
Conclusion: The Unbreakable Bond with Fans
Virat Kohli’s journey in cricket has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but one thing remains constant: the unwavering support of his fans. Even during challenging times, like his recent dip in form, Kohli continues to receive love and admiration from his followers. The connection he shares with them is not just about cricket; it’s about respect, gratitude, and the spirit of the game. As he celebrates his 36th birthday, fans will undoubtedly continue to rally behind him, hoping to see the return of the Kohli they know and love.