Virat Kohli stands as a cornerstone of the Indian cricket team, celebrated for his remarkable skill, unwavering consistency, and fiery passion. Since making his debut in 2008, Kohli has delivered numerous match-winning performances, particularly against Australia, where he has scored more runs than against any other team.
Among his standout achievements, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy—a fiercely contested Test series between India and Australia—holds a special place. Known for its high-intensity battles, the series often brings out the best in both teams, and Kohli has been at the center of many memorable moments.
With the next Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to begin on November 22, fans are eagerly anticipating Kohli’s face-off against Australia. Can he lead the charge to help India reclaim their winning momentum? Read on to explore his stellar record against the Aussies and what to expect in this much-anticipated series.
Virat Kohli vs Australia: A Record-Breaking Rivalry
Here’s a table displaying Virat Kohli’s record against Australia across all formats up to November 2024:
| Format | Matches Played | Runs Scored | Centuries | Average | Strike Rate |
| Test | 25 | 2042 | 8 | 47.48 | 52.41 |
| ODI | 49 | 2367 | 8 | 53.79 | 94.21 |
| T20I | 22 | 794 | 0 | 36.00 | 130.00 |
The following sections provide an overview of his performances against Australia across various formats.
Virat Kohli Against Australia In Test Matches
| Years played | 2011-23 |
| Centuries | 8 |
| Half-Centuries | 5 |
| Fours | 227 |
| Sixes | 5 |
Virat Kohli’s performances in Test matches against Australia are among his finest, amassing 2,042 runs in 25 matches at an average of 47.48. His remarkable consistency includes eight centuries, highlighted by his unforgettable knock in Adelaide, where he battled valiantly on a challenging pitch.
In Melbourne, Kohli showcases his resilience and expertise. With a highest Test score of 169 against Australia, he has proven his ability to tackle their bowling attack in difficult conditions. Kohli’s Test career against Australia is marked by remarkable consistency and determination.
His achievements in these Test innings are all the more significant given the intense and challenging environment that typically characterizes India-Australia Test series.
Kohli’s success in these matches underscores his growth as a player, highlighting his adaptability and composure under pressure, making these performances defining milestones in his career.
Virat Kohli Against Australia In One Day Internationals (ODIs)
| Years played | 2009-23 |
| Centuries | 8 |
| Half-Centuries | 14 |
| Fours | 207 |
| Sixes | 25 |
In that match, Kohli showcased his remarkable skill and determination in leading a challenging chase, underscoring his unparalleled ability in this role. His consistent success against Australia in ODIs further cements his reputation as one of the format’s greatest players.
These ODI performances are particularly notable for Kohli’s ability to consistently steer India to victory in high-pressure situations, a trademark of his game. Known for his calm under pressure and flawless timing, Kohli excels at anchoring a chase while accelerating when necessary, demonstrating both his cricketing acumen and unshakable confidence. This ability has firmly established him as one of the finest chasers in ODI history.
Virat Kohli Against Australia In T20 Internationals (T20Is)
| Years played | 2012-24 |
| Centuries | 0 |
| Half-Centuries | 8 |
| Fours | 60 |
| Sixes | 26 |
In T20Is, Kohli has featured in 22 matches against Australia, accumulating 794 runs with impressive consistency. While he has yet to score a century in this format against them, his aggressive approach and swift adaptability continue to make him a formidable opponent.
His attacking approach, especially in high-stakes chases, has often turned the tide in India’s favor, cementing his reputation as a clutch player in T20s against Australia.
What makes these T20 knocks particularly impressive is Kohli’s ability to control the game’s pace and deliver under pressure.
Often coming in during tense moments, Kohli’s sharp reading of situations and precise shot selection give India the advantage in chases.
His T20 heroics against Australia exemplify his competitive spirit and quick adaptability to the shorter format, making these performances some of the most exciting and celebrated of his career.
Virat Kohli’s Greatest Performances Against Australia
Out of all the innings Virat has played against Australia, the below 3 standout for the sheer requirement of a top-class performance when the team was in need:
1. 169 in Melbourne (2014)
Virat Kohli’s 169 in the 2014 Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was one of his most iconic knocks against Australia. Facing a strong Australian bowling lineup on a challenging pitch, Kohli displayed excellent technique and grit, countering each bowler with confidence.
This knock not only helped India put up a competitive total but also demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and aggression alike.
2. 82 in Mohali (2016)*
In the ICC T20 World Cup 2016, Kohli’s unbeaten 82 off 51 balls against Australia in Mohali is one of his finest T20 innings. Chasing 161 in a high-stakes match, Kohli single-handedly guided India to victory with a masterclass in timing and precision.
His calculated assault on the Australian bowlers in the death overs turned the game, securing India’s spot in the semifinals.
3. 123 in Perth (2018)
Kohli’s 123 in Perth during the 2018 Test series showcased his exceptional skill in tough conditions. On a bouncy pitch where most batters struggled, Kohli stood out with a controlled, classy innings, facing a challenging Australian pace attack.
Although India didn’t win the match, Kohli’s knock underlined his consistency and ability to play in hostile environments, further cementing his reputation in Test cricket.
Conclusion:
Virat Kohli’s remarkable achievements have solidified his status as one of cricket’s greatest batsmen. His influence on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series has been nothing short of extraordinary, consistently stepping up in crucial moments to guide India through its toughest matches.
Kohli’s role remains pivotal in the upcoming series against Australia. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his aggressive stroke play and unwavering determination, hoping for more unforgettable performances that further cement his legacy.