Virat Kohli’s Intense Preparation to Overcome Poor Form Ahead of India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 Clash

Virat Kohli has always been known for his unwavering dedication to the game, and his latest actions prove why he remains one of the most committed cricketers in the world. Ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Kohli took an extraordinary step by arriving at the ICC Academy two hours before his scheduled practice session. His goal? To work rigorously on his technique against spin bowling, an area that has recently troubled him in international cricket.

Kohli’s Struggles Against Spin-A Growing Concern

While Kohli has been famous for his prowess against pace attacks all these years, the lack of skill against spinners has been the hot subject of discussion over the last few months. His failure to play deliveries down the leg-stump by fast bowlers was experienced during India's Test tour in Australia. But his lack of skill against spin has come clearer in the ODIs. In India's opening match of the Champions Trophy against Bangladesh, the seasoned batter was dismissed by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain for the sixth consecutive time to be dismissed by a spinner in ODIs.

This pattern of dismissals has been of concern, especially with the impending match against Pakistan, whose bowling attack features young leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed. Kohli has also been terrorized by England's Adil Rashid previously, so there is no doubt that he has to improve his game against spin bowling. Realizing the need to plug this weakness, he determined to work hard in preparation for the crucial match.

Arriving Early-A Testimony to His Dedication

Kohli’s passion for the game and his work ethic are undeniable. While the Indian team was scheduled for an early training session, the former captain made it a point to reach two hours before the scheduled time. Even his teammates, who arrived an hour earlier than planned, were inspired by Kohli’s commitment. His decision to prioritize extra net sessions was a clear indication that he is determined to overcome his current slump.

During the session, Kohli practiced mainly against facing spinners. The net bowlers included a number of leg-spinners, off-spinners, as well as a left-arm spinner in order to mimic the variations that he would be exposed to while playing against Pakistan. As Pakistan's bowling lineup includes part-time left-arm spinner Khushdil Shah as well as off-spinner Salman Agha, Kohli ensured that he practiced against similar bowlers in order to prepare himself well.

Although Pakistan's spin attack is less formidable than their pace battery, Kohli can't take anything for granted. The toughest task will come in the form of Pakistan's group of world-class pacers—Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah. But these pacers are on the back foot after their below-par show against New Zealand in their tournament's first match.

India is in a favorable position, however, having beaten Bangladesh. Pakistan are in a do-or-die scenario, while India would be looking to build on their form and complete their qualification for the tournament's next round. Despite this superiority, Kohli understands that his team cannot be complacent at all, especially against high-profile clashes like India-Pakistan.

India's Bowling Strength: A Slower Pitch Weapon

Dubai conditions are going to be on the slower side, and that would suit the Indian bowling unit. India boasts a powerful spin attack with five specialist bowlers in the form of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy being the primary spinners, along with all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar. The depth would prove to be a massive strength for India as they can utilize the slow conditions of the pitch to unsettle Pakistan's batsmen.

Pakistan, known for their belligerent approach to the game, will most likely find it difficult to deal with India's spin-bowling dependence. With the surface to be anticipated to turn, India's spin bowlers will be well-positioned to act as key players in checking the run flow and creating wicket-taking opportunities.

A Focused Kohli Keen on the Big Stage

Kohli’s early arrival at the practice session and his intense focus on improving against spin highlight his burning desire to regain his dominant form. While questions have been raised about his recent struggles, his ability to adapt and work on his weaknesses is what makes him a champion player.

As India prepares to take on Pakistan in one of the most highly anticipated encounters of the tournament, Kohli will be under scrutiny. His performance in this game could set the tone for the rest of India's tournament run. Whether or not he will be able to overcome his vulnerability to spin will be observed later, but there is no doubt that Virat Kohli is going all out to return to his best.

With the stakes higher than ever, Kohli’s dedication and preparation could prove to be the defining factor in this high-voltage clash. Indian fans will be hoping that their star batter delivers when it matters the most, reinforcing why he remains one of the greatest cricketers of his generation.