Mike Hesson tells Australia that Kohli is more concerned with winning games for India than with numbers

Mike Hesson, the former New Zealand cricketer and current coach, has come to the defense of Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli amidst growing scrutiny over his recent performance in Test cricket. Critics have pointed out Kohli's declining numbers, particularly noting that he has yet to score a fifty or a hundred in Tests this year. However, Hesson believes that Kohli is now at a pivotal stage in his career where his primary focus is on contributing to his team's success rather than fixating on personal statistics. 

Hesson suggested that this shift in mindset could make Kohli a formidable opponent, especially as India prepares to face Australia in a five-match Test series beginning on November 22. Kohli's performance has become a topic of discussion, particularly because he has only managed to secure two centuries in Test cricket since 2019, leading many to question his position among the top batters, often referred to as the "Fab Four." 

Hesson expressed confidence that this mindset could ultimately lead to a resurgence in Kohli's scoring ability. He stated, "I think Virat Kohli is at that stage in his career where he just wants to try and win games for India. And I think that's a dangerous stage for other sides because if he’s doing that rather than focusing on numbers, the big scores will come naturally." He emphasized the importance of Kohli’s ability to maintain momentum in games, particularly in challenging Australian conditions. Hesson highlighted that the key phases of the game, specifically between the 30th and 60th overs, are crucial, where Kohli's skill in counterattacking could prove decisive. 

Despite a less-than-ideal performance in the first Test against Bangladesh, where Kohli scored just 6 and 17, he demonstrated his potential by scoring a brisk 47 off 35 balls and finishing with an unbeaten 29 in subsequent outings. Hesson remains optimistic about Kohli’s prospects in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, especially given his impressive historical performance against Australia, where he has amassed 2,042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries over 25 matches.

Hesson also pointed out Kohli's strong familiarity with Australian conditions, which have historically been a happy hunting ground for him since 2012. He noted, "He was in fine touch, and even though he didn’t get big scores against Bangladesh, he looked like he was moving well and getting into good positions. After playing in New Zealand, heading to Australia will suit him, as he thrives in those conditions."

Moreover, Hesson emphasized Kohli's importance as a senior figure in the team, particularly in guiding younger players who will be experiencing the rigors of Test cricket in Australia for the first time. He remarked, "He has the game and knows the conditions very well. The discussions he’ll have with younger players will also be crucial in helping them apply their game to challenge the Australians in the best way possible." 

As India gears up for the series, all eyes will be on Kohli to see if he can turn around his recent form and once again emerge as a key player for the team. The upcoming matches not only present an opportunity for Kohli to silence his critics but also to solidify his legacy in the sport as one of the all-time greats. With the expectations of fans and analysts riding high, Kohli's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be put to the test against a determined Australian side. 

The series will not only serve as a critical juncture in Kohli’s career but also hold significant implications for the Indian team’s performance in the context of the ICC World Test Championship. A successful outing could rejuvenate Kohli’s confidence and reestablish his status as a premier batsman in the Test arena, paving the way for a strong showing against some of the fiercest competition in world cricket. 

Kohli's role extends beyond mere batting prowess; he is seen as a mentor and leader who can inspire younger teammates and instill a competitive spirit within the squad. His experience and knowledge of Australian conditions can provide invaluable insights to those playing in Australia for the first time. Hesson’s belief in Kohli’s ability to adapt and thrive under pressure could be crucial not just for Kohli’s own redemption arc but also for the Indian cricket team as they look to assert their dominance in the Test arena once again. 

In conclusion, the upcoming series against Australia is more than just another chapter in Kohli's career; it represents a chance for him to reclaim his position among cricket's elite, silencing doubters and reaffirming his status as one of the greats of the game. With everything on the line, the world will be watching to see how Kohli responds to the challenges that lie ahead.