Gavaskar Criticizes Kohli’s On-Field Actions During BGT, Warns of Team Impact

 

Sunil Gavaskar has expressed disappointment with Virat Kohli’s behavior during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, highlighting that his antics against the Australian crowd might have unintended consequences for his teammates.

 

Gavaskar specifically pointed out Kohli’s ‘sandpaper gesture’ during the Sydney Test, referencing Australia’s 2018 ball-tampering scandal. While the act was aimed at the crowd following Steve Smith’s dismissal, Gavaskar believes such reactions invite further hostility, making life tougher for the rest of the Indian team.

 

“Kohli needs to realize that his responses to the crowd often shift the pressure onto his teammates, who then become targets for the audience,” Gavaskar noted in his column for the Sydney Morning Herald.

 

Kohli also faced backlash for a shoulder-barge incident involving Australia’s Sam Konstas during the Melbourne Test, with many, including Michael Vaughan, criticizing the move. Gavaskar described the act as unnecessary and contrary to the spirit of cricket.