Former Australia batter Simon Katich made waves during commentary on Monday by declaring, “The King is dead,” after Virat Kohli’s dismissal in India’s fourth Test defeat against Australia in Melbourne. Kohli, dismissed cheaply for 5 runs by Mitchell Starc, once again fell to his outside off-stump weakness.

The Aussie, on commentary aired, “The King is dead,” after Kohli’s dismissal. “He trudges off. King Bumrah has taken the mantle now. Kohli looks dejected with himself. That was a big knock for him. He has come up short. Australia will be very, very happy with the situation they find themselves in,” continued the former Australia batter as both teams headed to lunch after Kohli’s wicket.

The cutting remarks, hinting at the end of Kohli’s reign as India’s batting legend, came as India collapsed for 155 runs, losing by 184. The former RCB coach suggested Jasprit Bumrah may now take over the mantle as India’s key player. Kohli’s attempted cover drive was caught in the slips by Usman Khawaja, capping a disappointing outing for the Indian star.

Kohli's recurring struggles with off-stump deliveries drew heavy criticism on social media after his dismissal during India’s crucial chase, with fans slamming his lack of batting discipline in such a crucial match.