Dear Virat Kohli,
As a fan who has watched you with awe and admiration, crowning you the ‘King’ of modern cricket, I’ve been through the roller coaster of emotions that your career has brought. You’ve been our chase master, the epitome of what a batsman should aspire to be in this era. However, as we’ve journeyed through the Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, there’s been a palpable sense of longing, a yearning for the Virat Kohli of old, particularly in the longest format of the game.
The Virat Kohli we’ve come to idolize isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the way you play, the intensity, the hunger, and the sheer dominance you’ve shown, especially in the 2016 era. That was when you seemed invincible, turning Test cricket into your personal playground. Yet, in recent times, particularly against Bangladesh and New Zealand, your bat has been unusually silent, your game not quite the aggressive, fearless display we’ve grown accustomed to.
I understand the pressures, the expectations, and the evolving dynamics of cricket. The game changes, and so do players. But Virat, it’s not just about the runs; it’s about the fight, the intent. We’ve seen glimpses, moments where the old Kohli seemed to awaken, like a flicker in the dark, but then it fades, leaving us wondering, where has that fire gone?
The series against Bangladesh and New Zealand wasn’t just about statistics; it was about the narrative you’ve built over the years. You’ve been our beacon in Test cricket, a reminder of what sheer will can achieve. Your 81st century isn’t just a number we’re waiting for; it’s a symbol of your return to that peak form where you don’t just play cricket, you dominate it.
As your fans, we’re not just here for the victories; we’re here for the journey, the battles, and yes, even the occasional defeats because they make the victories sweeter. But what we crave, what we need, is to see you fight, to see that you’re in the game, not just physically but mentally, with every fiber of your being.
Virat, we’ve seen you conquer Australia, we’ve seen you lead from the front, turning games on their head with sheer determination. That’s the Kohli we need back in Test cricket. Not because we demand perfection, but because we believe in your potential, in the legacy you’re building.
We’re not just fans; we’re believers in your cricketing philosophy, in the way you’ve redefined the game. So, here’s my open letter, not just as a critique but as a call to arms. I’m not asking for miracles; I’m asking for you to be you, to fight like we know you can, to show the world why you’re not just a player but a phenomenon.
The 81st century isn’t just about breaking records; it’s about breaking the silence of your bat in Test cricket. We’re here, cheering, waiting, and above all, believing in you.
Yours in cricket,
A Hopeful Fan
