The excitement surrounding the second Test match of the series between India and Bangladesh continues to build as the teams prepare to clash in Kanpur. Recently, a heartwarming moment captured during Team India’s practice session has gone viral on social media, showcasing the burgeoning friendship between head coach Gautam Gambhir and star batsman Virat Kohli.
A Viral Moment: Gambhir and Kohli Share a Laugh
During a busy practice session, where all the players focused on their preparations for the upcoming Test, Gambhir and Kohli were seen engaged in a light-hearted conversation. A playful moment occurred when Gambhir reached out to touch Virat’s beard to remove what appeared to be a small smudge. This endearing gesture not only demonstrates their camaraderie but also offers a glimpse into their blossoming friendship, which has surprised many given the tension often suggested between them in the past.
The Evolution of Their Relationship
Before Gambhir took on the role of head coach, there were numerous speculations regarding his strained relationship with Kohli. However, since assuming the position, the public has witnessed a palpable shift in their dynamics. Gambhir and Kohli have both expressed mutual respect and admiration for each other, particularly evident in a recent video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that showcased their interactions and teamwork.
Virat Kohli with Gautam Gambhir in the practice session. pic.twitter.com/O2Qcd4pTbe
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 25, 2024
Kohli’s Recent Performance: A Call for Revival
As the time for the Kanpur Test draws near, both Gambhir and Kohli share a common goal: to lead Team India to victory. The team secured an emphatic win in the previous Chennai Test; however, Kohli’s performance has raised concerns. In that match, he managed just 6 runs in the first innings and 17 runs in the second, marking one of the lower points in his illustrious career.
The Challenge of Consistency
2024 has not been kind to Kohli, as reflected in his overall performance stats. With only 319 runs in 15 international matches this year at an average of 18.76, Kohli’s struggle to find his rhythm is evident. This includes just one half-century, and his numbers in Test matches have also been disappointing—only 81 runs across two games. During ODIs, he has scored a mere 58 runs in three matches, and in T20 format, he has accumulated only 180 runs in ten games, averaging just 18. These figures are a far cry from the performances expected from a player of his caliber.
As the team gears up for the crucial Test in Kanpur, all eyes will be on Kohli to see if he can turn around his fortunes and make a significant contribution to the team’s success. The rapport shared between Gambhir and Kohli could provide the much-needed boost as they strive to make their mark in the series.
