Virat Kohli’s journey in Test cricket, particularly in Australia, has been marked by significant achievements and memorable performances. As he prepares for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, it is essential to reflect on his past contributions and the milestones he aims to achieve.
Melbourne, 2011
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test) of 2011 was part of his first Test series in Australia during the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
. First Innings
. Runs scored: 11 of 23 balls
. Kohli struggled to handle the pace and bounce early in his innings and fell cheaply, reflecting his early challenges in adapting to Australian conditions.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 0 (duck) off 4 balls
. Kohli was out for a golden duck, facing a brilliant delivery from Pattinson, further intensifying scrutiny on his performance in this series.
Perth, 2012
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Perth Test during India’s tour of Australia in January 2012 (3rd Test of the series) marked a significant turning point in his Test career.
. First Innings
. Runs scored 44 runs of 81 balls
. This innings was crucial as he stood out against a fiery Australian pace attack featuring Ben Hilfenhaus, Peter Siddle, and Mitchell Starc.
. Second Innings
. Scored only 9 runs
Adelaide, 2012
Virat Kohli’s century at Adelaide in January 2012 during India’s tour of Australia was a turning point in his Test career. It was his first Test century and a defining moment for the young batsman, who was under pressure to prove himself in the longest format.
. First Innings
. Runs scored 116 off 213 balls (11 Fours)
. He was the only Indian batsman to score a century in the match, standing tall amidst a batting collapse.
. Second Innings
. Scored 22 runs
Adelaide, 2014
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Adelaide Test of 2014 is one of the most iconic displays of his career. This match, the first Test of the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, cemented Kohli’s reputation as a world-class batsman and leader.
. First Innings
. Runs scored 115 off 184 balls (12 fours)
. Showed remarkable composure and counter-attacking play against a strong Australian bowling attack, featuring Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, and Nathan Lyon.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 141 off 175 balls (16 fours and 1 six)
. Kohli led from the front with an attacking mindset, keeping India in the hunt for an unlikely win.
Melbourne (2014)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the 2014 Melbourne Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands as a testament to his exceptional batting skills under pressure. Here’s a detailed look at that match and Kohli’s contributions:
. First Innings
. Runs scored 169 off 272 balls (18 fours)
. Kohli displayed remarkable stroke play against Australia’s world-class pace attack, including Mitchell Johnson and Ryan Harris.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 54 off 99 balls
. Faced intense pressure but remained composed, rotating the strike effectively and frustrating the Australian bowlers.
Sydney (2015)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Sydney Test of the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was a significant milestone in his career. This match, played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 6-10, 2015, further cemented Kohli’s reputation as one of the finest batsmen in Test cricket.
. First Innings
. Runs scored 147 off 230 (20 fours)
. Kohli’s knock was a masterclass in counter-attacking batting, as he faced the Australian bowlers with confidence and aggression.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 46 off 95 (6 fours)
. The Sydney Test was a symbolic end to one of the greatest series performances by an Indian batsman in Australia.
Adelaide (2018)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Adelaide Test of 2018, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was pivotal in India securing a historic series victory in Australia. Here’s a breakdown of the match and Kohli’s contribution:
. First Innings
. Runs scored 3 off 16 balls
. He was caught at gully by Usman Khawaja after trying to fend off a rising delivery. This early dismissal was uncharacteristic of Kohli’s usual dominance in Australia.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 34 off 104
. His innings showed great determination, but he fell to Nathan Lyon, caught at short leg by Aaron Finch.
Perth (2018)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Perth Test of the 2018 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was a standout moment in the series, showcasing his class and grit. Here’s a detailed overview of his contributions in the match:
. First Innings
. Runs scored 123 off 257 balls (13 fours and 1 six)
. Kohli scored a brilliant century, demonstrating exceptional skill and patience on a lively Perth pitch, which offered significant pace and bounce.
. Second Innings
. Runs scored 17 off 40 balls
. Kohli was dismissed early in India’s second innings by Nathan Lyon, caught behind while attempting a defensive shot.
Also Read: 10 Years & 10 Innings Apart Virat Kohli’s last 10 Innings
Melbourne (2018)
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Melbourne Test of the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was significant, both as a captain and a batsman, contributing to India’s historic victory in the series. Here’s a detailed account of the match:
. First Innings
. Runs scored 82 off 204 balls
. His innings, though not as flamboyant as usual, was pivotal in stabilizing the Indian innings on a challenging MCG pitch.
. Second Innings
. Kohli did not make a significant score in the second innings, focusing instead on setting up a challenging target for Australia.
Sydney (2018)
Virat Kohli played an important role in the 2018 Sydney Test, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, which culminated in India’s historic first Test series win in Australia. Here’s a breakdown of the match:
. First Innings
. Runs scored 23 off 59 balls
. Although Kohli didn’t make a big contribution with the bat, his leadership played a vital role in the team’s strategy and morale
. Second Innings (India did not bat)
Adelaide (2018)
The Adelaide Test in December 2020, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, holds a significant place in Virat Kohli’s career and Indian cricket history. It was the first match of the series and a Day-Night Test played with a pink ball.
. First Innings
. Runs scored 74 off 180 balls
. His innings was characterized by elegant stroke play and controlled aggression.
. Second Innings
. Kohli was dismissed for 4 runs, nicking a delivery from Pat Cummins to the slips.
Perth (2024)
. Is Kohli coming Australia for the last time?
As of November 17, 2024, there is no official confirmation regarding whether the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series in Australia will be Virat Kohli’s final appearance in the country. Kohli, aged 35, has not announced any plans to retire from Test cricket. His participation in the series is significant, especially considering his previous performances in Australia, where he has scored 1,352 runs in 13 Tests at an average of 54.08, including six centuries.
As the series progresses, Kohli’s form will be closely watched, and if he performs well, it could lead to speculation about his future decisions regarding Test cricket.
