'Hope Virat avoids arguing with himself and overthinking...': Matthew Hayden's key advice to Kohli after torrid outing in Perth ODI

Australian legendary batter Matthew Hayden has offered advice to India veteran Virat Kohli urging him not to let his forgettable performance in the Perth ODI affect his mindset for the remainder of the series against Australia. Both Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggled in their international comebacks, being dismissed cheaply in the series opener.

Matthew Hayden's crucial advice for Virat Kohli

Hayden stressed that a single failure should not cause Kohli to doubt the fundamental technique and calibre that have been the source of his consistent success in ODIs over the years, especially on Australian pitches. Kohli was dismissed for an eight-ball duck, lasting only eight deliveries, while Rohit managed just 8 runs in their first game back after a seven-month hiatus. Speaking to Star Sports after Australia's seven-wicket victory in Perth, Hayden said that Kohli must back his technique in the second ODI.

"Virat Kohli’s striking ability and contact points are exceptional. 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. 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," Hayden said.

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Kohli sets sights on Adelaide encounter

Kohli has narrowed his focus exclusively to the ODI format. Although India's limited ODI schedule has restricted his opportunities, he had demonstrated consistent form in 2025 leading up to the Perth game. He had amassed 274 runs in six matches, highlighted by a century against Pakistan in Dubai and a crucial 84 against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final in March. With other steady starts like 52 against England and 22 against Bangladesh, Kohli remained a vital batting asset for the team heading into the series.

India's immediate future takes them to Adelaide for the second ODI, a venue where Kohli has historically thrived. In his four ODI appearances there, he has scored 244 runs at an average of 61, including two centuries. His exceptional record extends to Tests at Adelaide as well, where he boasts 537 runs in five matches at an average of 53.70, featuring three centuries.

Kohli will look to find his mojo back in the second ODI against Australia, which is slated to be played on October 23 at Adelaide Oval.