Wed Feb 12 19:20:47 UTC 2025: **Kohli’s struggles against Rashid continue ahead of Champions Trophy**

**Ahmedabad, India** – Virat Kohli’s ongoing struggles against leg-spin were once again highlighted in India’s final ODI against England, despite a 52-run knock. The match, a dead rubber after India secured the series victory, served as a crucial warm-up for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.

Kohli, whose place in the Champions Trophy squad is secure, fell victim to England’s Adil Rashid for the 11th time in his international career – more than any other bowler. Rashid, who ended with impressive figures of 4/64, dismissed Kohli twice in the series, both times caught behind off deliveries moving away from the batsman. This vulnerability against leg-spin, and balls moving away in general, will be a key concern for India as they prepare to face Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy group stage – all teams possessing capable spinners.

While Kohli showed some positive signs, scoring a fifty with seven fours and a six, his dismissal, and repeated struggles against Rashid, served as a stark reminder of a persistent weakness. Despite the impressive 356-run total posted by India (Gill 112, Iyer 78), the recurring pattern of Kohli’s dismissals against Rashid will undoubtedly be closely studied by India’s upcoming opponents. The match ultimately ended with an Indian victory.

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