Virat Kohli's Test career, once a beacon of consistency and dominance, has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. A noticeable dip in form, coupled with technical adjustments that haven't yielded the desired results, has fueled speculation about his future in the longest format of the game.

One of the primary reasons cited for Kohli's struggles is a technical flaw, particularly his open stance, which, according to analysts like Daryll Cullinan, has compromised his ability to effectively counter deliveries outside the off-stump. This vulnerability has been repeatedly exploited by bowlers, leading to dismissals that were uncharacteristic of the Kohli of old. The 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia served as a stark illustration of this issue, where he averaged a meager 23.75 and was frequently caught edging balls to the slip cordon.

Statistical analyses further highlight the decline. Since 2020, Kohli has averaged just 30.72 in Test matches, a significant drop from his career average. His dot ball percentage has also increased, indicating a struggle to rotate the strike and maintain momentum. This stagnation at the crease has added pressure and contributed to a sense of frustration, both for the player and the team.

Adding to the technical challenges, mental fatigue and burnout have also been suggested as contributing factors. The relentless schedule of international cricket, coupled with the immense pressure of captaincy and the constant scrutiny from fans and media, can take a toll on even the most resilient athletes. Kohli himself stepped down from captaincy, perhaps in an attempt to alleviate some of this pressure, but the burden of expectations remains.

While Kohli has produced some memorable Test innings in recent years, including a century in Perth during the 2024-25 Australia tour, these moments have been interspersed with periods of inconsistency. The frequency with which he has been dismissed due to technical errors has raised concerns about his reflexes and adaptability in challenging conditions.

The emergence of younger players vying for spots in the Test squad has also added another layer of complexity to Kohli's situation. With India's focus shifting towards limited-overs cricket and the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, the selectors may be inclined to prioritize younger talent in the Test arena.

Despite the challenges, Kohli's legacy as one of the greatest Test batsmen of his generation remains secure. His passion for Test cricket is well-documented, and he has consistently expressed his desire to represent India in the format. However, the realities of age, technical adjustments, and the evolving landscape of international cricket may ultimately influence his decision.