The Indian cricket community is abuzz with concern after star batter Virat Kohli was seen practicing with a bandaged knee ahead of the second Test against Australia, scheduled to start on December 6 in Adelaide. Reports suggest Kohli received medical attention during the session, fueling speculation about a possible knee niggle. Fans are anxious, given Kohli’s pivotal role in India’s recent historic win in the series opener in Perth.
The first Test saw Kohli break a prolonged century drought with a stunning unbeaten 100 in the second innings, his first Test century since July 2023 and only his third in five years. This brilliant knock played a critical role in India’s victory over Australia and set the tone for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Ahead of the Adelaide Test, ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting weighed in on Kohli’s performance. During the latest episode of the ICC Review, Ponting highlighted the importance of Kohli’s second-innings century in Perth.
“In the first innings, Virat seemed preoccupied with countering the Australian bowlers and veered away from his natural game. But in the second innings, he was back to his best—playing with intent and rediscovering his rhythm,” Ponting remarked.
Kohli’s knock was a masterclass in batting under pressure, silencing critics and showcasing why he remains one of the world’s most dependable batters.
While Kohli’s brilliance gave India a crucial lead in the five-match series, Australia faces mounting pressure. With a potential spot in the World Test Championship final on the line, Ponting urged key Australian players like Marnus Labuschagne and Steven Smith to step up.
“It’s their turn now. Labuschagne, Smith, and others need to find their form and deliver with the bat,” Ponting emphasized.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy holds immense significance for both teams, with each match shaping the path to the coveted championship final.
India’s commanding performance in Perth, fueled by Kohli’s heroics, has given the team a significant advantage in the series. Beyond securing a 1-0 lead, the win has injected confidence into the squad.
Kohli’s ability to rise to the occasion has long been his trademark, and his Perth innings was no exception. The knock not only ended his century drought but also reaffirmed his status as a game-changer.
Fans, however, remain on edge. Seeing Kohli with a bandaged knee ahead of the Adelaide Test has sparked widespread concern on social media. While there is no official word on the severity of the injury, the hope is that it’s a minor issue that won’t impact his availability or performance.
With four Tests remaining in the series, Kohli’s fitness will be closely monitored as India aims to maintain its momentum and secure a historic series win Down Under.