Sat Feb 22 17:08:01 UTC 2025: ## Kohli’s Struggles Continue: Former Cricketers Point to Mental Block

**Dubai, UAE** – Virat Kohli’s ongoing lean patch continued in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, raising concerns among former cricketers. Despite India’s six-wicket victory over Bangladesh, Kohli’s 22-run innings off 38 balls highlighted his struggles. The former captain, who has scored only 137 runs in six ODI innings since the 2023 World Cup, including just one fifty, failed to find his rhythm before being dismissed.

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa, analyzing Kohli’s performance on Star Sports, suggested the star batsman is caught in a mental battle: “It feels like he’s looking to middle the ball versus when he actually is batting well, he’s looking to get runs…he’s trying to break free from that space of trying to middle the ball versus scoring runs and he’s finding himself caught in between.” Uthappa believes that once Kohli frees himself mentally, the runs will follow.

Echoing similar sentiments, former India captain Anil Kumble, speaking on ESPNcricinfo, observed that Kohli is “trying a bit too hard.” Kumble believes Kohli needs a more relaxed approach, emphasizing that all players experience tough patches but Kohli appears to be putting excessive pressure on himself.

Kohli’s performance will be a key factor as India faces Pakistan in a high-stakes clash on Sunday. His ability to overcome this mental hurdle will be crucial for India’s chances in the tournament.

Read More