After two disappointing outings with the bat, Virat Kohli finally gave fans something to cheer about — this time, with his fielding. In the third ODI against Australia, the former India captain pulled off a brilliant reflex catch to dismiss Matthew Short, reminding everyone why he remains one of the sharpest fielders in world cricket.
Kohli’s rough return with the bat
There was immense anticipation surrounding Kohli’s comeback to Indian colours after a seven-month break from international cricket. However, the early matches didn’t go as planned. The star batter registered consecutive ducks — an eight-ball duck in Perth followed by a four-ball duck in Adelaide — marking the first time in his ODI career that he had been dismissed for zero in back-to-back innings.
His lack of timing and conviction at the crease had sparked discussions among fans and experts about whether Kohli still had his trademark dominance with the bat.
The redemption moment
But as Kohli has often shown, his value to the team goes beyond runs. In today’s third ODI, he made a crucial impact in the field.
Australia’s Matthew Short looked well-set at 30 off 40 balls, confidently rotating the strike and finding gaps against India’s spinners. Attempting to accelerate, Short tried to sweep Washington Sundar for a boundary — but mistimed it just enough to pick out Kohli, who was positioned near the square-leg umpire.
The ball came straight at Kohli at high speed, described by commentators as “coming at the rate of knots.” Yet, the veteran showed superb reflexes and composure, pouching the catch cleanly and effortlessly. His celebration was understated — a quiet nod, almost as if to say that he was back in rhythm.
Kohli’s fielding remains world-class
Over the years, Kohli has built a reputation not only as one of cricket’s most prolific batters but also as a livewire fielder. Whether at point, covers, or in the inner circle, his anticipation, athleticism, and sure hands have saved countless runs and created key breakthroughs for India.
Even as questions linger over his batting form, moments like these reaffirm that Kohli’s fitness, focus, and fielding prowess remain second to none.
What’s next for Kohli and India
As the series continues, fans will hope that Kohli’s confidence in the field translates to form with the bat. With the T20I series and a busy cricketing calendar ahead, India will be counting on their seasoned campaigner to rediscover his rhythm in all formats.
For now, though, Kohli’s sharp catch off Matthew Short serves as a reminder — even when the runs dry up, his commitment and impact on the game never waver.