Virat Kohli's "staggering consistency" when he was at his height two years ago, according to former India captain and elegant batter Mohammad Azharuddin, has set the bar so high that even if the charismatic batsman scores in the 50s or 60s, his fans believe he has underperformed.
"What happens with Virat Kohli is that even if he hits a 50, people feel he has failed," Azhar told Khaleej Times on Friday. "I believe that happens to every cricketer; even the top players have gone through these dry spells," the 59-year-old said.
However, Azhar believes it would only be a matter of time before Kohli regains his form, claiming that a century for the batsman will be enough to get him going again. Kohli has been on a long losing streak, not scoring a century in any of the three formats since November 2019.
Even though he is the highest-ever run-getter in a single IPL season, with 973 runs for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2016, he had a dismal IPL 2022 season, making 341 runs from 16 matches at 22.73.
"There isn't anything wrong with his approach. You may also require a little bit of luck from time to time. If he scores one big score, a big hundred, he'll regain his aggression and confidence "Azhar added.
Azhar also anticipated that all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who recently led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title as captain, will be able to maintain consistency over lengthy periods of time.
"He has the talent and has performed admirably for the Indian squad, but due to injuries, he has not been able to stay with the team on a consistent basis. Now that he's returned, he's bowling his four overs. We have no idea how long he will bowl. We do, however, want him to bowl because he is an all-rounder "he stated
In the IPL final (against Rajasthan Royals), he completely changed the game, three wickets in four overs, then he scored 34 quick runs. He is a good talent, just needs that consistency."