Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s modern-day legends, has left an indelible mark at the Adelaide Oval, a venue that has witnessed some of his finest Test performances. Known for his adaptability, resilience, and flair, Kohli’s achievements at Adelaide not only highlight his batting mastery but also underscore his ability to rise to the occasion against formidable opponents like Australia. Now India will face Australia in the same ground for the pink-ball Test, part of the five-match Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, starting on Friday (December 6).
Adelaide Oval: A special venue for Virat Kohli
The Adelaide Oval has been a special ground for Kohli since the early days of his Test career. Across four Test matches played here, Kohli has accumulated 509 runs in eight innings at an average of 63.62. His performances include three centuries and one half-century, making this venue one of his most successful overseas grounds. What sets Kohli apart is his ability to deliver under pressure and on challenging surfaces. Facing Australia’s world-class bowling attack, Kohli has showcased his technical prowess and mental fortitude, consistently scoring runs and guiding India through tough situations.
A breakthrough in Adelaide (2012)
Kohli’s journey to greatness began in earnest at the Adelaide Oval during India’s 2011-12 tour of Australia. In the fourth Test of the series, India’s top order crumbled against a relentless Australian attack. Kohli, batting at number six, stepped up with a defiant 116 off 213 balls.
His innings was a masterclass in counter-attacking cricket. Kohli displayed impeccable footwork and timing against the pacers while skillfully navigating Nathan Lyon’s spin. His century was a lone bright spot in a game where India suffered a crushing 298-run defeat. This innings was not just a milestone for Kohli but also a statement of his potential to be a dependable Test batter in the years to come.
A special milestone during Test captaincy debut (2014)
The 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 an occasion to remember with twin centuries.
- First Innings (115 runs): Kohli anchored India’s innings, countering Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris and Lyon with flair. His 115-run knock came off 184 balls and included 12 boundaries. His partnership with Murali Vijay steadied India after early setbacks.
- Second Innings (141 runs): Chasing a daunting 364 on the final day, Kohli played one of his most aggressive and inspiring Test knocks. His 141 off 175 balls showcased audacious stroke play and immense self-belief. Although India fell short by 48 runs, Kohli’s valiant effort drew widespread acclaim.
With this performance, Kohli became the first Indian captain to score twin centuries on Test captaincy debut. His leadership and batting set the tone for a fiercely contested series.
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Consistency at the Adelaide Oval
Over the years, Kohli has transformed Adelaide into a personal fortress. His ability to adapt to different match situations and read the conditions has been exemplary.
- Centuries Galore: Kohli’s three centuries at Adelaide are a testament to his dominance. He has scored runs both while setting targets and during challenging chases, underlining his versatility.
- Remarkable Average: Kohli’s average of 63.62 at this venue highlights his consistency and reliability.
- Memorable Partnerships: Kohli has often formed crucial partnerships with players like Vijay, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara ensuring India’s competitiveness.
Chasing records: On the brink of history
As Kohli prepares for another Adelaide Test in the ongoing BGT, he stands on the cusp of history. With three centuries at this venue, he is tied with England’s Jack Hobbs for the most Test centuries by a visiting batter at Adelaide Oval. A fourth ton will see Kohli surpass Hobbs and claim this prestigious record. Kohli has also a chance to leave Brain Lara behind in an elite list. So far Lara has most runs by a visiting batter in Adelaide in Test cricket. Lara scored 610 runs in 8 innings meanwhile Kohli made 509 runs in similar number of innings so far. He need just 112 runs to eclipse the all time record of Lara.
Moreover, Kohli’s tally of 957 international runs at Adelaide (across formats) is unmatched by any visiting batter, further underscoring his dominance at this ground. Kohli’s success at Adelaide is part of his broader excellence on Australian soil. Across 14 Tests in Australia, he has amassed 1,457 runs at an average of 56.03, including seven centuries and four half-centuries. Among Indians, only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar (1,809 runs) has scored more 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.
The legacy at Adelaide
Adelaide Oval holds a unique place in Kohli’s illustrious career. It has been the site of several career-defining moments, from his maiden Test ton to his heroic twin centuries as captain. As Kohli continues to play at this iconic venue, cricket fans can expect more remarkable 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 set benchmarks in the annals of Test cricket.