R Sridhar Confident in Kohli’s Preparation Ahead of Australia Series

Former Indian fielding coach R Sridhar has expressed confidence in Virat Kohli‘s readiness for the upcoming series in Australia, highlighting the player’s exhaustive preparation routine. Despite acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by the Australian team, Sridhar remains optimistic about Kohli’s prospects for success in the series.

«It’s not going to be easy for India, but the hope is for a hat-trick,» Sridhar remarked during the Times of India‘s evening show, ‘Beyond the Boundary.’ He emphasized the team’s resilience in overcoming past obstacles, setting a hopeful tone for the series.

Virat Kohli has been noted for his meticulous preparation ahead of major Test series in challenging conditions, including those in Australia. «Generally, when Virat Kohli goes for a big series in SENA countries, he likes to go all in with his preparation before the first Test,» explained Sridhar. Kohli usually arrives 10 to 12 days ahead of the first match to acclimatize and focus on intense training.

Sridhar described Kohli’s rigorous training regimen, noting that the cricketer faces around 200-250 balls in each practice session, often simulating match scenarios on the most difficult pitches. «He’s willing to look ugly in practice so that as the tour progresses, it becomes easier,» Sridhar noted, highlighting Kohli’s commitment to refining his technique.

Kohli’s current form in Test cricket has been below expectations, as evidenced by his recent performances against Bangladesh and New Zealand. However, his past performance in Australia remains impressive, with eight hundreds and five fifties to his name, though he has also been dismissed for a duck on three occasions.

As India prepares for the first Test in Perth, Sridhar expressed confidence in Kohli’s physical condition, stating, «His fitness levels are well-suited to the demands of an intensive 10-day training camp.» He believes Kohli’s focus on his backfoot movements and his ability to handle deliveries outside the off-stump will play a crucial role in his performance against Australia’s formidable bowling lineup.

The Indian team, under pressure to perform, remains hopeful that Kohli can return to his best form and lead them to victory in the much-anticipated series.