AUS vs IND: Virat Kohli’s record in Test cricket on Australian soil

Nov 20, 2024

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Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has long been regarded as one of the modern-day greats, and his remarkable performances in Australia have played a significant part in this reputation. Over a span of more than a decade, Kohli has evolved into one of the most prolific run-scorers in Australian conditions, with his consistency and ability to deliver in crunch moments earning him widespread admiration.

Virat Kohli’s love for batting in Australia

Known for his aggressive yet calculated approach to batting, Kohli thrives in the challenges Australia presents. Whether it’s the fast, bouncy pitches or the hostile crowd, Kohli’s composure and skill shine through, making him a player the Australian team fears. His remarkable ability to adapt to different pitches, combined with his mental toughness, has made him a formidable opponent in every series he’s participated in. Kohli’s enduring love for the Australian conditions can be seen in the way he has not only adapted his batting technique over time but also in how he has consistently maintained a high level of performance, often leading India to significant victories in this challenging environment.

BGT 2024-25: India’s Tour of Australia

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 will mark the continuation of an intense rivalry between India and Australia. The series is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams in exceptional form in the World Test Championship. India will be aiming to extend its dominance over Australia, having already claimed two consecutive series victories on Australian soil (2018-19 and 2020-21). Australia, on the other hand, will be determined to reclaim supremacy, with their own formidable batting and bowling lineup led by the likes of Pat Cummins and Steve Smith.

The 2024-25 series will be pivotal in determining the finalists for the World Test Championship (WTC), and both teams will be looking to leave a lasting mark. With the added excitement of India’s growing confidence in Australia and the home side looking to restore its pride, this tour promises to offer riveting cricket, with every session likely to be full of drama and intense competition.

Also READ: From Ravi Shastri to Rachel Khawaja: Here’s the full list of commentators for AUS vs IND Test series

Kohli’s key performance in each tour to Australia (2011-2021)

2011-12: The early struggles and first signs of brilliance

Virat Kohli’s first Test series in Australia came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. At the time, Kohli had only played four Test matches and was still finding his feet in the longer format. In his first innings in Australia, he managed just 11 runs, but the match was a steep learning curve. With India’s batting line-up featuring legends like Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman, Kohli found himself batting lower in the order.

However, the young Kohli didn’t let the early setback deter him. In the fourth Test of the series in Adelaide, Kohli struck his first-ever Test century, a remarkable 116 off 213 balls. This knock, during a difficult phase for India in the series, showed his resilience and signaled the start of his enduring love affair with Australian conditions. Kohli’s stylish batting, highlighted by his stroke play, set the stage for many more memorable knocks in Australia over the coming years.

2014-15: The defining series under pressure

By the time Kohli returned to Australia in 2014-15, he was a transformed player, having established himself as one of the best in the world. Kohli’s captaincy debut in Australia marked the beginning of a highly competitive series, and he responded with outstanding individual performances. His first century of the series came in the Adelaide Test, where he weathered the brutal pace of Mitchell Johnson, facing both physical and mental challenges. Despite being hit on the head by Johnson, Kohli scored a gritty 115 runs.

Kohli’s aggression and leadership were on full display throughout the series. His masterful 141 in the first Test in Adelaide almost led India to an improbable win. While Australia eventually triumphed in the series, Kohli’s innings, including a breathtaking 169 in the third Test at the MCG, were unforgettable. His ability to counter-attack against the formidable Australian bowlers earned him widespread recognition as one of the finest modern-day batsmen.

2018-19: The historic series win

By the time the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy came around, Kohli was no longer just India’s best batsman but also a leader who had guided the team to greater heights. In the series, Kohli’s 123 in the second Test at Perth helped India build a strong foundation, and his contributions in the other matches ensured that India could hold their own against Australia’s formidable attack.

His knock in the third Test at Melbourne was pivotal, as he not only scored runs but also made sure India’s innings was as competitive as possible. Throughout the series, Kohli’s runs were vital in putting India in a dominant position. His 282 runs in the series were crucial, and it was his tenacity and determination that made the difference.

Kohli’s leadership was also a standout, as India came close to defeating Australia on their home soil. He played a pivotal role in India’s historic series win in Australia in 2018-19, becoming the first Asian captain to win a Test series on Australian soil. Kohli’s ability to find form in difficult conditions, whether on the flat tracks or on the bouncy ones, made him an invaluable asset for the Indian team.

2021: The final act

Virat Kohli’s 2021 tour of Australia saw a series of dramatic events that became a defining chapter in his career. In the first Test at Adelaide, Kohli was dismissed for 74, run out after a solid knock in the first innings, and had to leave the series prematurely. This was particularly unfortunate as it came during the pink-ball Test, where the conditions were tough for the batsmen. Kohli had already announced before the series that he would be leaving after the first Test due to personal reasons, as his wife, Anushka Sharma, was expecting their first child.

The next innings in Adelaide saw India face an unprecedented collapse, as they were bundled out for just 36 runs in their second innings, marking their lowest ever score in Test cricket. It was a humiliating moment, but it set the stage for one of the most remarkable comebacks in Indian cricket history.

Under the captaincy of Ajinkya Rahane, India fought back with resilience and determination. They went on to win the remaining three Tests, clinching a historic 2-1 series victory over Australia. This win, achieved without their star player Kohli, was seen as a triumph of team spirit and belief. It was a testament to the strength and unity of the squad, led by Rahane, who stepped up in Kohli’s absence. The series victory remains one of India’s greatest Test achievements, especially considering the circumstances surrounding it.

Kohli’s legacy in Australia

Kohli’s Test record against Australia is a testament to his dominance and consistency against one of the strongest cricketing nations. Across 25 Test matches against Australia, Kohli has amassed 2,042 runs at an impressive average of 47.48. His performances include eight centuries and five half-centuries, showcasing his ability to score big and anchor India’s innings in challenging situations.

In the Australian conditions, Kohli’s prowess becomes even more evident. Over 13 Tests on Australian soil, he has accumulated 1,352 runs at a remarkable average of 54.08. His tally includes six centuries and four fifties, with his highest score being a brilliant 169. These numbers highlight his adaptability to foreign conditions and his ability to excel against a formidable Australian bowling attack. Kohli’s performances in Australia have been pivotal for India, often turning matches in their favor. His exceptional form down under has earned him immense respect from the cricketing fraternity and fans alike, marking him as one of the finest batsmen of his generation.