Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has praised Virat Kohli for his remarkable century against Australia in Perth. Ponting highlighted how Kohli regained his form by trusting his game.
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Kohli’s century not only silenced his critics but also showed his ability to perform under pressure. The innings at Perth added to Kohli’s impressive record in Australia and set an example for players facing a slump.
Ponting used Kohli's comeback story to inspire Australian batters Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, who are currently struggling with form.
What is Ricky Ponting’s take on Virat Kohli’s century?
Ricky Ponting commended Kohli for his mindset during the second innings at Perth.
“Virat went back to trusting his game and he looked like a different player in the second innings than he did in the first,” said Ponting, speaking on the ICC Review.
Kohli now has 30 Test centuries and 81 international tons. He is inching closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries. In Australia, Kohli has an exceptional record, with seven Test centuries, making him the leading Indian batter in the country.
What are the lessons for Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne?
Ponting urged Smith and Labuschagne to adopt a positive mindset, just as Kohli did. He advised them to focus on their strengths and play with intent.
“Think about scoring runs first and not think about getting out first. That is always a challenge for a batter, especially when you are not in great form,” he added.
Labuschagne’s recent form has been disappointing, with only 245 runs in six Tests this year at an average of 24.50. Similarly, Smith has struggled, averaging just 25.55 in six Tests this year.
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Ponting believes that a shift in approach could help them regain their form. With 12 international centuries in the country, Kohli leads all visiting players.
Across formats, Kohli has scored 3,531 runs in Australia at an average of 56.95. Ricky Ponting’s comparison serves as a timely message for Smith and Labuschagne, urging them to focus on intent and play to their strengths.
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