The Cost of Virat Kohli's MRF Bat in Australia is Nearly Five Times that of Coldplay's India Concert Tickets

Virat Kohli continues to shine on the global stage, even after stepping down as captain of the Indian cricket team. His presence is felt in every big Test series India plays away from home, such as the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia where his face is prominently featured on promotional banners. A recent video that went viral on social media showcased Kohli's influence, as the MRF Genius Grand King bat - the same one he uses - was being sold for over ₹1.65 lakh. This is just another example of the impact Kohli has on the cricketing world, showcasing his star power both on and off the field.

Just to put it in perspective, the most expensive tickets that was listed for British rock band Coldplay's planned concert in Ahmedabad costed ₹35,000. Australian podcaster and youtuber Norman Kochanek said in his video that the bat is available for sale at a Greg Chappell Cricket Centre outlet and costs 2985 AUD. The bat also has Kohli's signature on its sticker.

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Australia has been a happy hunting ground for Kohli but the former India captain has looked woefully out of touch in Test cricket of late. Kohli consistently averaged above 55 every year in Tests between 2016 and 2019. In fact, he averaged more than 75 in 2016 and 2017 and 68.00 in 2019.

However, his annual Test average has crossed 50 just once in the years since. Kohli averaged 19.33 in 2020, 28.21 in 2021, 26.50 in 2022, 55.91 last year and 22.72 thus far this year. He has scored just two centuries in the last five years, both of which came in 2023.

Kohli's lack of form and manner of dismissals have been among the central talking points during and since India's historic whitewash at the hands of New Zealand at home earlier this month. However, he would be hoping to return to form in Australia where he has an incredible record. He has scored 1,352 runs in 13 matches at an average of 54.08, including six centuries and another four fifties in his 25 innings.