The former all-rounder highlighted that even legends like Sachin Tendulkar continued to play domestic cricket at the end of their careers to stay fit.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concern over Virat Kohli’s recent struggles in Test cricket, particularly his poor performances in the first innings.
Pathan pointed out that Kohli averaged just 15 in the first innings of Tests in 2024, a crucial phase in which batsmen are expected to set the tone. He believes it may be time for the Indian management to consider younger players who can bring more consistency to the team.
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Pathan calls for a shift from superstar culture to team culture
Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan Pathan emphasized the need for the Indian team to move away from a “superstar culture” and adopt a more team-oriented mentality.
He stressed that players must prioritize improving their game and contributing to the team’s success, rather than relying on past achievements. He believes a team-centric approach is essential to overcome India’s recent struggles in red-ball cricket.
“We need to end the superstar culture, we need a team culture. You need to improve yourself and improve the Indian team. There were also matches before this series and they had a chance to play domestic cricket but they didn’t. We need to change that culture,” Pathan said.
The former all-rounder highlighted that even legends like Sachin Tendulkar continued to play domestic cricket at the end of their careers to stay fit. Kohli, however, has not played domestic cricket since the 2012/13 Ranji Trophy. Pathan suggested that returning to domestic cricket could help Kohli address his technical issues and rediscover his form.
“When was the last time Virat Kohli played domestic cricket? (The host points out that Kohli’s last first-class appearance for Delhi was in 2012) It’s been more than a decade. Even Sachin Tendulkar has played domestic cricket more recently and has retired,” Pathan said.
Irfan Pathan highlights the value of preparing young talents for the future
Pathan asked the Indian team to provide regular opportunities to the younger players. He maintained that even a less experienced player, with consistent chances, could average between 25 and 30, which is similar to Kohli’s current output. Pathan believes that investing in young talent would be a better long-term strategy for the team’s future in Test cricket.
“In 2024, in the first innings in which the game is being prepared, Virat Kohli averages only 15. If we take away his numbers of the last five years, he does not even average 30. Is this what the Indian team deserves for its senior player . Instead, you give a young man regular opportunities, you give him time to prepare, even he can average 25-30. Because here we are talking about the team, not about individuals,” Pathan added.
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Repeated mistakes: Pathan’s concern over Kohli dismissals
Pathan expressed his disappointment over Kohli’s repeated problems with deliveries outside off-stump, a flaw that Sunil Gavaskar has often pointed out. Pathan felt that despite receiving advice from one of the greats of the game, not enough effort has been made to rectify this issue. He highlighted the importance of hard work and adaptability to address these weaknesses.
“We are not degrading Virat Kohli. He has scored many runs and played magnificently for India, but the same mistake is repeated again and again. Sunny sir (Sunil Gavaskar) has pointed it out and it is here on the ground. How long does it take to come to Sunny sir and tell him about that mistake? It takes a lot of work to rectify that mistake and I didn’t see any of that,” Pathan said.
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