With India’s marquee Australia tour commencing in a couple of weeks time, all eyes will be on batting maestro, Virat Kohli. Following a disappointing outing against New Zealand in the recently concluded home Test series, Kohli will be eager to rediscover his lost form on his ‘happy hunting’ ground.
Known for his dominance on Australian soil, Kohli will be keen to silence his critics and prove the doubters wrong, showing the world why he’s one of the best in the game. The tour could be the perfect stage for him to find his rhythm and reaffirm his legendary status in Test cricket.
Kohli has had a remarkable journey in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series Down Under, consistently showcasing his adaptability, skill and mental toughness on challenging pitches.
Till date, Kohli has scored 1352 runs in 13 Tests at a remarkable average of 54.08, which include 6 hundreds and four half-centuries.
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His first series in Australia in 2011-12 was a turning point. Though he initially struggled, he found his footing by the fourth Test, scoring his maiden Test century (116) in Adelaide. The breakthrough innings was the only century by an Indian in an otherwise disappointing series for the team, which the visitors lost 0-4.
Kohli’s next Border-Gavaskar series in Australia, the 2014-15 tour, cemented his status as a world-class batsman.
Leading the team after MS Dhoni’s shock retirement from the format, Kohli had an extraordinary series, scoring four centuries, with back-to-back tons in opening Adelaide Test, in as many Tests, totaling 692 runs at an average of 86.25.
His aggressive approach and ability to dominate Australian bowlers were on full display, especially his 141 in Adelaide and 147 in Sydney.
Kohli’s batting was instrumental in challenging Australia and made him a fan favorite.
In the 2018-19 series, Kohli captained India to a historic 2-1 series victory, marking India’s first-ever Test series win in Australia. Though he did not reach the peaks of 2014-15, he scored a crucial 123 in the second Test at Perth, emphasizing his leadership and grit. Kohli’s strategic acumen and ability to inspire his team were crucial to India’s success in the series.
However, in the 2020-21 series he scored 74 and 4 in the opening day-night Test in Adelaide, which Australia won by 8 wickets, before coming back to India for the birth of his first child.
India later scripted a historic series win over Australia with a 2-1 scoreline after winning the series decider at Gabba, their second consecutive series win in Australia, under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, who led India in the remaining three matches.
Kohli’s legacy in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia reflects his journey from a promising young player to a leader and match-winner. With a total of over 1,300 runs in Australia, he remains one of India’s most successful batsmen Down Under.