Ian Healy Urges Australian Bowlers to Target Virat Kohli's Front Pads in Upcoming Test Series

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Ian Healy, the renowned Australian wicketkeeper, has advised his country's pace bowlers to use varied tactics against Virat Kohli in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The series, featuring five Tests, kicks off in Perth on Friday. Despite Kohli's recent dip in form, he maintains an impressive average of 54.0 in Australia.

Healy suggests that Australia's fast bowlers, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, should focus on Kohli's front foot. "The first matchup I'm looking at is how our quicks can bowl to Virat Kohli, and I think they should target his front pad quite often," Healy mentioned on SEN Radio.

Targeting Kohli's Front Foot

Healy believes that targeting Kohli's front pad could expose any insecurities in his form. He noted that Kohli often plants his front foot early and can play shots all around the wicket. However, Healy cautioned against overusing this tactic as Kohli might adapt quickly.

"Don't do it every ball because he'll get used to it... it's the impact ball that has to be on the front pad after he is set up with seam," Healy advised. This strategy aims to keep Kohli guessing and potentially exploit any weaknesses.

Alternative Strategy: Body Bashing

If targeting the front foot proves ineffective, Healy recommends a more aggressive approach: body bashing. "If that's front-foot tactic not working, body bash," he stated. The bowlers should aim at Kohli's back armpit to make him uncomfortable.

Healy elaborated on this approach by saying, "Have him jumping at times if he wants to ride those deliveries -- ducking, weaving or bending backwards." The goal is to disrupt Kohli's rhythm and force him into making mistakes under pressure.

Healy also suggested positioning a short leg fielder close to Kohli on the leg side. This setup could tempt Kohli into playing risky hook or pull shots at deliveries aimed at badge height, which are challenging to control.

The Australian pace attack will need to execute these strategies effectively to contain one of India's most formidable batsmen. With the series set to begin soon, all eyes will be on how these tactics unfold on the field.