Virat Kohli is on the cusp of achieving a remarkable milestone that would bring him closer to the legendary Don Bradman in terms of cricketing greatness. As India and Australia prepare to square off in the Day-Night Test beginning December 6 at the Adelaide Oval, Kohli has the chance to either equal or break an all-time record held by Bradman. Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batter the game has ever seen, holds the record for the most international centuries by a batter in a visiting country. He scored 11 centuries in 19 matches during his career in England between 1930 and 1948. This achievement has stood the test of time and is one of the crowning jewels of his legendary career.
Kohli, with his relentless consistency and his knack for scoring big runs, currently has 10 centuries in Australia from 43 matches, placing him just one shy of Bradman’s record. This puts Kohli in elite company alongside some of the finest batsmen in cricket history. Other notable players on this list include Jack Hobbs, who scored 9 centuries in Australia, and modern-day greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who made 9 centuries in Sri Lanka, Sir Vivian Richards with 8 centuries in England, and Sunil Gavaskar, who scored 7 centuries in the West Indies. Kohli’s 10 centuries in Australia speak to his exceptional prowess in one of the most challenging cricketing environments for visiting players, highlighting his ability to thrive against some of the best bowling attacks in the world.
In his 43 matches in Australia, Kohli has accumulated a total of 2710 runs at a stellar average of 54.20, with a top score of 169 runs, which he achieved in a memorable innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in December 2014. This innings, which remains one of his finest performances on Australian soil, was a display of his technical brilliance and ability to adapt to the fast, bouncy pitches of Australia. Kohli’s statistics not only underline his consistency but also his ability to score big centuries when the team needs him the most.
In his most recent outing on Australian soil, Kohli experienced a mixed performance. He was dismissed cheaply in the first innings, falling for just five runs, with Josh Hazlewood’s delivery proving too much for him. However, Kohli showed his resilience and mental strength in the second innings, playing a superb, unbeaten knock of 100 runs off 143 balls. His innings included eight elegant boundaries and two well-timed sixes. This century was not just about the runs; it was a testament to Kohli’s character and his ability to bounce back after a setback, a quality that has made him one of the most formidable batsmen of his generation. After completing his century, Kohli took a moment to acknowledge the support of his wife, Anushka Sharma, who has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his career.
"I take pride in performing for my country. The fact that she is here makes it even more special for me. Yeah, Anushka has been right by my side through thick and thin. So, she knows everything that goes on behind the scenes. What goes on in the head when you don’t play as well or make a few mistakes. I just want to contribute to the team’s cause, I am not a guy who wants to hang around just for the sake of it," Kohli shared, revealing the important role his personal life plays in shaping his cricketing journey. Anushka’s support has been an anchor for Kohli during times of both success and struggle, and his words reflect the deep connection they share.
As the India-Australia series continues, Kohli will be looking to carry forward his momentum from this recent century into the upcoming Day-Night Test. The Adelaide Oval, with its distinctive pink ball and challenging conditions, will provide an exciting challenge for both teams. Kohli, with his immense experience and form, will be central to India’s hopes of taking a crucial 2-0 lead in the series. A win in Adelaide would not only boost India’s chances of winning the series but also add another layer of personal achievement for Kohli as he inches closer to one of the most iconic records in the history of the game.
Beyond the record, Kohli’s role in the team has always been about contributing to the collective cause. His leadership, batting, and commitment to the team’s success have made him one of the most admired figures in world cricket. As he continues his career, the possibility of breaking Bradman’s long-standing record would further cement his legacy as one of the finest batsmen to ever play the game.
