Virat Kohli showcased his vintage batting brilliance as India secured a massive 295-run win over Australia in the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth. After a modest first innings of 5 runs off 12 balls, Virat Kohli stormed back with an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls in the second innings, marking his 30th Test century and 81st international ton.
With this century, Virat Kohli equaled Sunil Gavaskar’s record of seven Test hundreds in an away country for India. His seven tons in Australia place him ahead of Rahul Dravid (6 in England) and Sachin Tendulkar (6 in Australia). Virat Kohli’s consistency in challenging overseas conditions once again underlined his stature as one of India’s all-time greats.
In terms of most Test centuries against Australia, Virat Kohli now shares the third spot with Sachin Tendulkar at nine, trailing only Sunil Gavaskar (13 vs West Indies) in the overall list.
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke hailed Kohli’s innings, acknowledging the batter’s hunger and resilience. Speaking on a sports channel, Clarke said, “You couldn’t ask for a better second innings. He played the way we know Virat can play. He was sharp and switched on because he knew he needed runs for his confidence. By the end of his innings, everyone was saying, ‘Virat’s back, and there’s no doubt about it.“
Michael Clarke also criticized Australia’s approach to handling Virat Kohli early in the series, emphasizing the importance of containing top players in their initial games. “Allowing him to get a hundred in the first Test is dangerous. He’s full of confidence now, and that’s when he’s at his best,” Clarke remarked.
India’s commanding win in Perth has set the tone for the series, with the team dominating in all departments. Kohli’s return to form further strengthens India’s chances in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a contest that has already seen thrilling moments and intense battles.
