Jasprit Bumrah Blasts Virat Kohli's Critics Ahead Of IND vs AUS 1st Test In Perth

IND vs AUS Test series could be crucial in determining the future of Virat Kohli's Test career and legacy.

Virat Kohli has struggled with a prolonged slump this year. In 19 matches across all formats, he has scored just 488 runs.

Source : PTI

Indian cricket captain Jasprit Bumrah hit back at Virat Kohli's critics ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth, starting Friday (November 22). The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be Kohli's fifth and one of his most challenging tours to Australia.

After a tough home season with the bat against Bangladesh and New Zealand, and underwhelming Test stats, Kohli faces mounting pressure. IND vs AUS Test series could be crucial in determining the future of his Test career and legacy.

Speaking at pre-match press conference about Virat, Bumrah said, "I made my debut under Virat Kohli, he is a leader in the team. He is one of the greatest. He is the utmost professional we have in our team, I do not wanna jinx, but he was looking sharp in the nets."

Virat Kohli has struggled with a prolonged slump this year. In 19 matches across all formats, he has scored just 488 runs at a disappointing average of 20.33, including only two fifties from 25 innings, with his highest score being 76.

Speaking about being ready for IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Test series, Bumrah said:

"We always believe and have confidence in our side whenever we play, whatever the situation might be. In terms of preparation, we are in a very good place. Now, it is all about being mentally switched on and we are looking to do that. And then hopefully things will fall in place," he added.

The premier pacer said he doesn't look at captaincy as a post.

"I always wanted to do the tough jobs ever since I was a child. You want to be in the thick of things, want to be thrown into tough challenges and scenarios. This adds a new challenge. I tried to learn from them (Rohit and Virat). When I became a senior, I started to pass on the things I learnt. There is no greater honour than this. I always wanted to play this format. Very few have played Tests for India, captains are even fewer. So I am privileged to be in this position," he added.