Virat Kohlione of cricket’s modern legends, left an indelible mark at the Adelaide Oval, the venue that witnessed his best Test performances. Known for his adaptability, consistency and finesse, Kohli’s achievements in Adelaide not only highlight his batting prowess but also his ability to take on formidable opponents like Australia. Now India will face Australia in a land for Pink ball testpart five – meeting Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25begins on Friday (December 6).
Adelaide Oval: A special place for Virat Kohli
The Adelaide Oval has been a special ground for Kohli since the early days of his Test career. In the four Test matches played here, Kohli has amassed 509 runs in eight innings at an average of 63.62. His performances span three centuries and a half century, making this venue one of the most successful overseas venues. What sets Kohli apart is his ability to deliver under pressure and on difficult surfaces. Facing Australia’s world-class bowling attack, Kohli showed his technical prowess and mental fortitude, scoring runs consistently and guiding India through tough situations.
Progress in Adelaide (2012)
Kohli’s journey to greatness began in earnest at the Adelaide Oval during India’s tour of Australia in 2011-12. In the fourth Test of the series, India’s top order crumbled against a relentless Australian attack. Kohli, who is at number six, made 116 off 213 balls.
His innings in cricket against the attack was masterful. Kohli showed seamless work and timing while skilfully navigating against the pacers Nathan Lyonspinning His century was a bright spot in the match as India suffered a 298-run defeat. This innings was not only a milestone for Kohli, but also a statement of his potential to be a reliable Test batsman in the years to come.
Special milestone on Test captaincy debut (2014)
BGT 2014-15 marked another memorable chapter in Kohli’s Adelaide journey. The first Test of the series was Kohli’s debut as India’s Test captain and he made it one to remember with a double century.
- First Innings (115 runs): Kohli anchored the Indian attacks and countered Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris and Lyon with enthusiasm. His 115 runs came off 184 balls and included 12 boundaries. His cooperation with Mural by Vijay Stabilized India after an early defeat.
- Second innings (141 runs): Chasing a monstrous 364 on the final day, Kohli played one of his most aggressive and inspired Test knocks. His 141 off 175 balls showed gutsy play and immense self-confidence. Although India were bowled out for 48 runs, Kohli’s valiant effort earned everyone recognition.
With this performance, Kohli became the first Indian captain to score two centuries on his Test captaincy debut. His leadership and batting set the tone for an intense series.
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Continuity at the Adelaide Oval
Over the years, Kohli has made Adelaide a personal fortress. His ability to adapt to different game situations and read the conditions was exemplary.
- Many centuries: Kohli’s three centuries in Adelaide are testament to his dominance. He highlights his versatility by making runs both in goal setting and in difficult pursuits.
- Significant average: Kohli’s average of 63.62 at this venue highlights his consistency and reliability.
- Memorable Partnerships: Kohli often has important partnerships with players like Vijay, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara ensuring India’s competitiveness.
Chasing records: On the brink of history
As Kohli heads into another Adelaide Test at BGT, he stands on the brink of history. With three centuries in this place, he is closed England‘s Jack Hobbs for the most Test centuries by a visiting batsman at the Adelaide Oval. The fourth ton will see Kohli surpass Hobbs, claiming the prestigious record. Kohli also has a chance to go Brain Lara behind the elite list. So far, Lara has scored more runs than an away bat in Adelaide in Test cricket. Lara has scored 610 runs in 8 innings, while Kohli has scored 509 runs in the same amount so far. He needs just 112 runs to take Lara’s all-time record.
Furthermore, Kohli’s tally of 957 international runs in Adelaide (across formats) is unmatched by any other batsman, further underscoring his dominance in this regard. Kohli’s success in Adelaide is part of his wider excellence on Australian soil. In 14 Tests in Australia, he amassed 1,457 runs at an average of 56.03, including seven centuries and four half-centuries. Just legendary among Indians Sachin Tendulkar (1,809 runs) has scored the most Test runs Down Under. His overall record against Australia is equally impressive, with 2,147 runs at an average of 48.79, including nine centuries.
Heritage in Adelaide
Adelaide Oval holds a unique place in Kohli’s illustrious career. It has been home to several career-defining moments, from his Test ton to his heroic twin centuries as captain. As Kohli continues to play at this iconic venue, cricket fans can expect more exciting performances and historic milestones. For now, the Adelaide Oval stands as a testament to the greatness of Kohli, a player who thrives under pressure and continues to make a mark in the annals of Test cricket.
