Kohli web ST

Picture Credit: Twitter

Virat Kohli's lean phase with the bat has been extended to more than what was expected. The Indian batter has failed to hit a century in any format on the international stage since 2019 and has been struggling ever since. Virat's form in the recently concluded IPL 2022 was no different from as the Royal Challengers Bangalore batter could not make the mark the bat, and shockingly got out for a duck thrice.

While Kohli's hard time with the bat continues to shock the cricket fraternity, voices have started raising over his inclusion in the squad and a couple of retired cricketers have questioned the board for their constant backing of Virat Kohli.

Amidst severe criticism from all quarters, Kohli has also got backing from many former cricketers and most notably, India's all-format skipper Rohit Sharma. In a recent development, former India cricketer Hemang Badani responded to a Tweet from veteran journalist Vijay Lokapally, who has also authored a book about Kohli’s rise to international cricket.

Taking to Twitter, Lokapally wrote, "Virat Kohli is doing this. Virat Kohli is doing that. Fine. But no one tells us what should Virat Kohli be doing to avoid doing this and doing that. What should he do to become the Virat Kohli we knew him to be. It has been a long time since we heard "What a 100 by Virat."

In response to Lokapally's tweet, Badani suggested he leave the Indian batter 'alone.'

Check out the tweets below:

Speaking of Virat Kohli, the Indian batter missed out to play the first ODI against England after sustaining a groin injury but recovered in time for the second ODI. However, he failed to make a significant contribution with the bat, getting out for 16 off 25 deliveries.