Is Virat Kohli really the next big star of Indian cricket?

The stylish and dashing right-handed batsman Virat Kohli first came into spotlight when he led the India Under-19 team to win the World cup in Malaysia back in 2008. Shortly after that, he made his way into the Indian ODI side and eventually into the Test side too, all very well deserved. No doubt this young Delhi boy has ample talent and lots of “textbook” cricketing strokes. The cricketing world witnessed a new batting genius with his contribution in the WC 2011 win, his magical knock in the CB series 2012 followed by some splendid batting in the Asia Cup in the same year.

Sadly, Virat’s short career so far has already seen many controversies. Hailed as the future captain, he isn’t really doing the best to prove that. His on-field “over-the-top” aggression has been talked about more than his batting. While aggression is good and is a part and parcel of any sport, there is a certain limit up to which it is permissible on a cricket ground. With the gentlemen’s game already loosing its lustre, guys like Virat aren’t helping either. On an average, this RCB skipper hurls more abuses in a match than the runs he scores. If IPL introduces a coloured cap for bad words used, Virat would become the undisputed owner of that cap. Getting into scuffles with senior players, showing the middle finger to the crowd, abusing spectators, etc. is not what a distinguished cricketer does in the middle.

The recent instance of the Wankhede crowd booing Kohli and calling him a “cheater” after the Rayadu run-out shows that the fans won’t tolerate unsporting behaviour no matter who you are. Virat decided not to take his appeal back and further even went on to defend his decision – not following the book of sportsmanship spirit at all. Furthermore, not surprisingly, he reacted by criticising the crowd and comparing them with the RCB crowd. Really? What are you Mr. Kohli, a twelve year old? Clearly, the Indian fans are losing patience with this young gun, and it would not come as a surprise if he gets the same treatment at other venues too.

Off late, he has been in a decent touch and the runs have been coming. That’s really keeping him afloat. His real test would be how he reacts when he goes through the frustration of a run drought and a bad patch. That may bring the worst out of him. Virat Kohli has got everything to become the next big thing, but it is high time he mends his over-aggressive ways and let his cricket do more of the talking.