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Virat Kohli Test Stats Before and After COVID Era

Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated cricketers of our time, has demonstrated remarkable prowess on the pitch. Known for his emphasized batting style and consistency, Kohli’s statistics reflect his immense contribution to Indian cricket.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted sports worldwide, has led to significant changes in player performances and statistics. This article aims to delve into Kohli’s Test stats both before and after the COVID era, shining a light on his performance trends and potential implications for his career.

Overview of Virat Kohli’s Test Stats: Before and After COVID

To better understand the evolution of Virat Kohli’s game, we’ll break down his statistics into two distinct eras: before 2020 and after 2020. This analysis will focus on key performance indicators such as runs scored, batting averages, and performance in different contexts, including SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries and away matches.

Before 2020

Statistical CategoryRunsAvgRPIIn SENAAway Testsvs SENA
Averages720254.9751.0749.5146.1253.02
Test stats before COVID

After 2020

Statistical CategoryRunsAvgRPIIn SENAAway Testsvs SENA
Averages164633.5932.9230.2933.1232.26
Test Stats after COVID

Interpretation of the Stats


The statistics highlight a significant decline in Virat Kohli’s performance post-COVID compared to his pre-COVID era. Let’s explore these figures in detail:

Runs Scored

Before 2020, Kohli accumulated an impressive 7,202 runs in Test cricket, showcasing his scoring ability and consistency. Post 2020, his run tally plummeted to 1,646 runs. This sharp contrast reflects not only the impact of the pandemic on the cricket calendar but also possibly on Kohli’s form and psychological state as he navigated through the challenges due to consistency amid disrupted schedules.

Batting Averages

Virat Kohli’s overall batting average saw a drastic drop from 54.97 before 2020 to 33.59 after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This decrease indicates a struggle to maintain his previously established high standards. Additionally, his runs per innings (RPI) mirrored this decline, falling from 51.07 to 32.92. Such statistics are telling; they suggest that Kohli may have faced difficulties in adapting back to international cricket post-lockdown, a challenge faced by many players worldwide.

Performance in SENA Countries

The statistics for matches played in SENA countries reveal a similar trajectory, with Kohli’s average dropping from 49.51 to 30.29. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in pitch conditions and increased pressure from adapting to match scenarios after an extended break. Kohli’s historic strength against tougher opponents in these countries was evident before 2020, and this fall raises questions about his future performances.

Away Tests

When it comes to away matches, Kohli’s average dipped from 46.12 to 33.12. His ability to score runs outside of home conditions has been critical in establishing him as one of the best batsmen of his generation. The sharp decline in this area suggests that the pandemic era may have affected his adaptability to diverse cricketing environments.

Performance against SENA Countries

Lastly, Virat Kohli’s statistics against SENA teams reflect a similar drop, from an average of 53.02 to 32.26. This dip emphasizes the challenging transition back into competitive cricket post-COVID, especially against formidable opponents.

Key Takeaways

Virat Kohli’s Test statistics starkly illustrate the impact of the COVID era on his performance. The decline in runs, RPI, and averages, specifically in high-pressure contexts such as SENA countries and away matches, indicates that Kohli faces unique challenges in his pursuit of excellence. However, the true test for a great player is how they respond to adversity. As Kohli continues to adapt, there will undoubtedly be keen interest in his future performances and attempts to reclaim his place amongst the top tier of international cricketers.