The cricketing world is buzzing after former Australian captain Matthew Hayden issued direct advice to Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli. Following Kohli’s recent duck in the first One Day International against Australia in Perth, Hayden urged him to steer clear of overthinking and engaging in ‘self-arguments’. Kohli, playing his first ODI since March 2025, was notably caught behind while attempting to play outside the off-stump against Mitchell Starc, a moment captured and widely discussed.
Hayden, a veteran known for his aggressive yet clear approach to the game, expressed unwavering faith in Kohli’s inherent technique and extensive experience in the 50-over format. “Virat Kohli’s striking ability and contact points are exceptional,” Hayden remarked on Star Sports. “After scoring 14,000 runs in this format, there’s little to question about his approach, as he consistently plays the ball on the rise and finds timing early.”
He further elaborated on the mental aspect of the game for Kohli, stating, “One thing I hope he avoids is arguing with himself and overthinking, which can lead to mistakes. He is destructive when he has clarity, certainty, and the ability to read the game—qualities his experience provides.”
The first ODI concluded with Australia securing a convincing seven-wicket victory. Attention now shifts to the second match, scheduled to take place on Thursday in Adelaide.
Adding his perspective, Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh came to Kohli’s defense, dismissing any concerns about his form. “He has played more than 300 matches for India, so form is just a word for him,” Arshdeep confidently stated during the post-match media conference.
Expressing his admiration for sharing the dressing room with the batting maestro, Arshdeep added, “He knows how to get going. It is always like a blessing to be in the same dressing room with him, and going forward I feel there’ll be a lot of runs for him in this series as well.”
When probed about Kohli’s mindset regarding playing only one format, Arshdeep maintained a lighthearted and discreet tone. “Talking about the format he is playing, he has mastered this one. So I don’t know how he feels about it. I will ask him about his feelings, and maybe tell you in the next press conference.”