Decoding Virat Kohli's struggles versus left-arm spinners since 2020 (ODIs)
Virat Kohli had a hard time in the recently-concluded away ODI series against Sri Lanka, which India lost 0-2. While the Indian batting ace fell to spin across all three games, left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage trapped him lbw for 20 in the final game. Though Kohli has been a formidable player of spin, left-arm spinners have troubled him lately. Here we decode the same.
Why does this story matter?
Kohli is arguably the finest batter to have graced the ODI format. As he is known to anchor the innings in the middle overs, his ability to play spin is mighty crucial. Though he continues to be a formidable force against leggies and offies, his numbers have considerably dropped down against left-arm spin in recent years. He would want to overcome his struggles soon.
11 dismissals across 24 innings
As per ESPNcricinfo, Kohli has fallen to left-arm spinners 11 times across 24 ODI innings since 2020. His average in this regard is a paltry 31.36. Notably, the 35-year-old has operated at an average of 77.87 against right-arm spinners (both leg-spinners and off-spinners) combined in this period. Interestingly, Kohli's average against left-arm pace is also impressive in this duration (49.83).
Overall impressive record against left-arm spinners
Notably, Kohli has developed his struggles only in recent years as his overall ODI record against left-arm spinner is still sensational. He averages 65.95 against them, having fallen to these kind of bowlers 24 times across 105 innings. The tally also includes 1,583 runs. Meanwhile, the former Indian skipper has an overall average of 69.79 against spin in ODIs.
Kohli's next ODI assignment is next year
Notably, the three-match series against SL was India's first and last ODI assignment in 2024. Their next ODI series is against hosts England in February 2025. The three-match series will be played just before the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Hence, Kohli, who has now retired from T20Is, will only get Test matches to enhance his game against left-arm spinners.
