Virat Kohli is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era. While his unparalleled dominance in ODIs has solidified his reputation as arguably the best in the 50-over format, his achievements in Test cricket are equally remarkable.
With over 9,000 runs in the longest format at an average exceeding 47, Kohli has proven his mettle against every opposition. However, he has displayed a special affinity for playing against Australia, particularly on their home turf. The pace and bounce of Australian pitches complement his stroke-making prowess, leading to exceptional performances. On Australian soil, Kohli has scored over 1,300 runs at a stellar average of 54, including six centuries and four half-centuries—a testament to his mastery in challenging conditions.
5. 116 – Adelaide, 2012
Virat Kohli’s maiden Test century in Australia came during the fourth Test of the 2011/12 series in Adelaide. India entered the match trailing 3-0 in the series, with Kohli under pressure due to his inconsistent performances.
In response to Australia’s towering 604-run total in the first innings, Kohli stood out with a resilient 116, laced with 11 fours and a six. He shared a vital 115-run partnership with Wriddhiman Saha, helping India reach 272. Despite his efforts, India succumbed to a 298-run defeat.
4. 123 – Perth, 2018
Virat Kohli regards this innings as one of the best of his illustrious career. The knock came during the second Test of India’s 2018 tour of Australia on a challenging Perth pitch known for its pace and bounce, conditions that heavily favored the fast bowlers.
Amid the testing circumstances, Kohli showcased his class with a sublime 123, an innings that featured 13 boundaries and a six. His impeccable technique and steely determination stood out as he anchored India’s innings, waging a lone battle against a formidable Australian bowling attack. Kohli’s ability to adapt to the conditions and play with such control made this innings a masterclass in Test batting.
Despite his valiant efforts, India fell short in the match, losing by 146 runs while chasing a target of 287. Although the team couldn’t secure a win, Kohli’s innings remains a standout performance, reflecting his resilience and ability to thrive under pressure..
3. 141 – Adelaide, 2014
One of Kohli’s most memorable knocks was his 141 in the thrilling Adelaide Test of 2014. Chasing a challenging target of 364 on the final day, Kohli led the charge with a fluent innings that included 16 fours and a six.
His efforts brought India tantalizingly close to a historic win, but a dramatic collapse saw the team slip from 242/2 to 315 all out, losing by 48 runs. Nathan Lyon’s seven-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Match award.
2. 147 – Sydney, 2014
Kohli concluded a stellar 2014 series with a remarkable 147 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This knock marked his fourth century of the series, showcasing his dominance against the Australian attack.
Responding to Australia’s imposing first-innings total of 572, Kohli struck 20 boundaries and shared a crucial 140-run stand with KL Rahul, who scored his maiden Test hundred. The match ended in a draw, with India showing commendable resilience on the final day.
1. 169 – Melbourne, 2014
Kohli’s highest Test score in Australia came during the iconic Boxing Day Test of 2014 in Melbourne. His magnificent 169, which included 18 fours, was the cornerstone of India’s first-innings total of 465.
Kohli’s stellar 260-run partnership with Ajinkya Rahane remains a highlight of the match. The Test ended in a tense draw, with MS Dhoni and Ravichandran Ashwin ensuring India batted out the final 13 overs to avoid defeat.