Virat Kohli Left Behind as His Fab Four Mates Continue to Thrive.

The term “Fab Four Era” has become synonymous with the modern-day legends of Test cricket, referring to the incredible careers of Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root. These four have dominated the longest format of the game for over a decade, each carving out a legacy that has seen them reach the top of the cricketing world. Their dominance from around 2012 onwards has been undeniable, with consistent performances that have set the benchmark for batsmen in modern Test cricket. However, despite their success, the journey of the Fab Four hasn’t been without its challenges, with each player experiencing significant downturns at different points in their careers.

Coming Back from the Struggles

Joe Root, for example, faced a period of struggle during his tenure as England's captain. His captaincy was often criticized for the team’s underperformance, with his own batting stats under par when leading the side. Kane Williamson, on the other hand, has been plagued by recurring injuries, which have limited his ability to maintain a consistent run in international cricket. Steve Smith’s issues have been both on and off the field, with controversies surrounding his ban and inconsistent performances following his return to the international arena.

FAB Four Average away from Home

Virat Kohli’s ‘EGO’

Then there is Virat Kohli, who was once far ahead of his peers in terms of statistics. Before 2020, Kohli was the most consistent and dominant batsman in world cricket. His aggressive style, exceptional technique, and hunger for runs made him a fearsome opponent. But since 2020, Virat has found himself in the midst of a significant slump, with just three centuries in Test cricket during this period. His overseas average, which was once well over 50, has dropped to 42.34, and his overall average has fallen from an astonishing 54.97 to 47.49—a massive dip in standards for a player of his caliber.

Virat Kohli in Test Cricket in 2020

What’s even more concerning is the consistent inconsistency in his game. Kohli, who was once known for his solid technique and adaptability, has struggled with his first innings performances. His weakness against deliveries outside the off-stump has been a recurring theme, especially since 2021. In the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli was dismissed four times by deliveries outside the off-stump, a weakness that he has yet to address, leaving many to question whether he can recover his form.

One Last Prime Run

At this juncture in his career, Virat Kohli is at a critical crossroads. He must fight his ego and confront the technical issues that have plagued him in recent years. Kohli’s greatest strength has always been his ability to adapt and adjust his technique when needed. If he can rediscover that ability, there is no doubt that he can once again regain his place among the elite, especially as the rest of the Fab Four have shown resilience in overcoming their own challenges.

Despite the struggles, there is hope for Kohli. His peak years have shown that when he adjusts and works on his weaknesses, he can be an unstoppable force. The next phase of his career will depend on his ability to make the necessary changes. If Kohli can overcome his current struggles and return to the form that made him one of the greatest, the Fab Four era could still have another chapter, with Virat Kohli back at the forefront of it all.