As India gear up for the AUS vs IND 1st Test in Perth on November 22, all eyes are on Virat Kohli. The batting maestro, known for his unparalleled commitment to preparation, is set to be a key player in the highly anticipated series. Former India fielding coach R Sridhar shed light on Kohli’s rigorous training regimen and his approach to overcoming challenges in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries.

Kohli’s unique training routine

Virat Kohli’s preparations for major overseas series have always been intense and calculated. Speaking to Times of India, Sridhar revealed that Kohli’s training involves batting on the toughest pitches and facing up to 200–250 deliveries in every session. These drills include match simulations and high-pressure practice scenarios.

According to Sridhar, Kohli prefers to arrive early for such series, giving himself 10–12 days to adapt to the conditions. During this period, he focuses on honing his technique and staying mentally prepared. Sridhar estimated that before the first Test in Perth, Kohli might have already faced over 1,000–1,500 deliveries in practice sessions, showcasing his dedication to perfection.

“Kohli thrives on challenging himself. He demands the most difficult pitches and pushes bowlers to test him under match-like scenarios. This rigorous preparation defines his success in challenging conditions,” Sridhar said.

See Also: Former Pakistan cricketer and international umpire passes away

Pressure to overcome a slump in form

While Kohli’s fitness remains at its peak, 2024 has been a challenging year for him in Test cricket. His performances in recent series against Bangladesh and New Zealand were below par, with only 93 runs across three Tests against the Kiwis. These struggles have raised concerns ahead of the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Despite his dip in form, Kohli’s track record in Australia is exceptional. With eight centuries and five fifties to his name in Tests Down Under, Kohli remains a formidable opponent. Moreover, he has been dismissed for a duck only three times against the Aussies in his Test career. As Kohli prepares to take on Australia in Perth, fans and critics alike are hopeful that he will rediscover his rhythm and lead India to a strong start.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will begin on November 22nd in the Optus Stadium in Perth. India, who have won the last four BGTs, is up against a home team eager to end their winning streak. Rohit Sharma's unavailability will be felt, as Jasprit Bumrah leads the Indian team. 
Let's check out Three key player battles to watch include:

Jasprit Bumrah vs Travis Head: 

Jasprit Bumrah, India's top fast bowler, will face Travis Head, Australia's in-form batter. Head has a long history of troubling Indian bowlers, so Bumrah will have to be at his best to contain him. Bumrah's unique action and capacity to generate reverse swing may be the key to dismissing Head cheaply. Travis Head's Test cricket career has been significantly impacted by Jasprit Bumrah, who dismissed him twice during their encounters. Despite this, Head has scored 50 runs off 126 balls against Bumrah, averaging 25.

Virat Kohli vs Mitchell Starc:

Virat Kohli, an experienced and successful Indian batter, will compete against Mitchell Starc, Australia's top fast bowler. Starc is known for extracting speed and bounce from perhaps the most benign pitches, making him an uphill battle for Kohli. Mitchell Starc dismissed Virat Kohli four times in Test cricket matches. Notably, Kohli has still scored 236 runs off 394 balls against Starc, with an impressive average of 59. This suggests that, despite being dismissed four times, Kohli always performed well against Starc, demonstrating his versatility and batsmanship.

Ravindra Jadeja vs Steve Smith:

Ravindra Jadeja, India's veteran off-spinner, will face off against Steve Smith, Australia's experienced and successful batter. Smith is known for his history of handling Jadeja well, but Jadeja has been developing his variations and can be unpredictable. The duel between these two will be critical in determining the series' outcome, as both players have the ability to change the game with a few well-placed deliveries completely. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Steve Smith eight times in Test cricket. Despite this, Smith has scored 270 runs from 735 balls, averaging 33.

Pat Cummins vs KL Rahul:

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul will open the batting against Pat Cummins. His biggest challenge will be Pat Cummins, who is tall and fast. The Australian speedster hasn't been at his best in a few months, and the same is true for the struggling KL Rahul. Both players will attempt to get on top of each other. KL Rahul has been dismissed twice by Pat Cummins in Test matches. Nonetheless, he has managed to score a respectable 80 runs off 157 balls against Cummins. His batting average of 40 and strike rate of 51 show his ability to counter Cummins' bowling.

Marnus Labuschagne vs Ravindra Jadeja:

The battle between Marnus Labuschagne and Ravindra Jadeja will be crucial in determining the series' outcome. Labuschagne's adaptability to different bowling styles will be tested against Jadeja's spin. Jadeja's experience and skill will make it difficult for Labuschagne to score freely, making this a battle to remember. Ravindra Jadeja knocked out Marnus Labuschagne five times in Test cricket, while Labuschagne has 99 runs off 301 balls at an average of 19 and a strike rate of 32.

In the ecosystem of intense cricket rivals, the India vs Australia clash, a.k.a, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has always aroused a sense of anticipation for a fierce game amongst many cricket fanatics. Hailed as one of the best vs. best series, the tournament has provided some wholesome cricketing action and moments meant to be remembered for the coming ages of the sport.

One such aspect would be the batters who did the trick with their willows and struck memorable batting performances, making it a treat to the eye. That said, amongst many from the list, here's a list of the top five batting innings from the Indian roster that has defined a whole of what a Border-Gavaskar Trophy matchup looks like. 

Rahul Dravid: 233 runs off 446 balls in Adelaide 2003-04

Rahul Dravid played an essential part in India's victory in the Adelaide test during the 2003/04 tour. Australia scored 556 runs, with Ricky Ponting contributing 242. In response, India was reduced to 85/4, and VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid came together. The two struck a massive 303-run stand for the fifth wicket to get India back into the game. Rahul Dravid scored 223 runs off 446 balls, while Laxman contributed 148. Dravid smashed 22 fours and one six in his knock, helping India score 523 runs. Australia responded 196 to Ajit Agarkar's 6/41, giving India just 230 runs to win. After Virender Sehwag had a terrific start, Dravid stepped in again. Dravid spearheaded the chase with 72*, helping India to scalp a convincing victory by four wickets.

Virat Kohli: 116 runs off 213 balls in Adelaide 2011-12

Virat Kohli produced a fantastic innings of 116 runs off 213 deliveries at the Adelaide Oval in January 2012 during India's fourth and final Test tour of Australia. In the first innings, a young Virat showed talent, commitment, and poise against a formidable Australian bowling attack. He played with a good attitude, counterattacking when appropriate and defending well when needed. Kohli's century in Adelaide was his first Test century, and it was noteworthy, as he demonstrated excellent shot selection, timing, and footwork, allowing him to collect runs easily. Although India eventually lost the match, the youngster's innings made an indelible impact and laid the groundwork for his future success.

Cheteshwar Pujara: 193 runs off 373 balls in Sydney 2018-19

India had a 2-1 lead going into this match and was confident of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the end of the series. Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been immaculate throughout the series, is determined to put on a show for the last time to assist India achieve its goal. Pujara demonstrated his typical calm, discipline, and resistance when dealing with the dangerous Australian onslaught. However, he used every opportunity to knock the poor deliveries away, scoring 22 boundaries in his innings of 193 runs off 373 deliveries. As Pujara continued to pile up the runs, Australia's last-ditch bid to escape a series triumph faded. The batter appeared unstoppable at times, and his psychological drain on the opposition's bowling assault may have played a vital role in India's historic series triumph.

Also Read: Top 5 Memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches played in Australia

 Virat Kohli: 169 runs off 272 balls in Melbourne 2014-15

In December 2014, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli produced one of his best Test innings against Australia. On the first day of the Boxing Day Test, Kohli showed incredible determination and perseverance. He scored an impressive 169 runs off 272 deliveries, including 30 boundaries. His performance was critical in stabilising the Indian innings and laying a firm foundation for the squad. This innings demonstrated Kohli's ability to thrive under challenging conditions and against top-tier competition. Notably, Kohli's effort at the MCG in 2014 helped India take a significant first-innings lead, but the team could not win the match.

Rishabh Pant: 89* runs off 138 balls in Brisbane 2020-21

The victory in the Brisbane Test (Gabba) Test in 2021 is widely regarded as one of the most defining moments in Indian cricket history, thanks to Rishabh Pant's unbeaten match-winning knock of 89 runs off 138 deliveries, anchoring India's successful chase of 328 runs, the highest-ever target chased at the Gabba. In addition, against all odds, the Indian cricket team won a surprising series triumph over Australia at the tough 'Fortress Gabba,' a location where Australia had not lost a Test since 1988. Pant, who finished fifth, demonstrated maturity and control. Pant, known for his aggressive and reckless batting style, was unconcerned about the occasion's scenario or pressure. 

The tension is always high in the India-Australia rivalry, especially in the game's purest form. The two sides have played some of the most memorable Tests in the game's history. This legendary rivalry dates back several decades, during which both cricketing powerhouses dominated the prestigious Test format. The thrilling confrontations between India's tenacious batting and Australia's fearsome bowling arsenal are at the core of this long-standing rivalry.

To summarise, this is a straightforward fight of the best vs the best. India have won the Border-Gavaskar trophy (BGT) four times in a row, and the hosts from Australia are eager to reverse the trend in the upcoming five-match Test series. That said, here's a comprehensive list of the five Test matches played in Australia that have made a mark on several cricket fanatics since the BGT's inception.

·   2003 Adelaide

The 2003 Adelaide clash-up was India's first Test victory in Australia since 1980-81 when they won in Melbourne. After Ricky Ponting's 242 propelled Australia to 556 in the first innings, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman re-wrote their epic partnership at Eden Gardens with a historic 303-run stand for the fifth wicket. Dravid's fourth Test double-hundred was a resounding response to his doubters who questioned his ability to score runs in Australia.

The Indian number three not only exorcised the ghosts of the 1999-2000 Australia trip with this innings but also joined the ranks of the greats. Ajit Agarkar's remarkable statistics of 6/41 guaranteed that Australia were bowled out for 196 runs in their second innings, setting India a 230-run goal. Dravid followed up his first-innings effort with an unbeaten 72 in the second as India chased down the mark and won by four wickets to grab a 1-0 series lead against Australia for the first time in history.

·   2008 Sydney

The Sydney Test clash between India and Australia was one of the most contentious games in the sport's history. Happened way back in 2008, the match sparked controversy due to the number of umpiring errors by senior umpires Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson. Furthermore, Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was charged with racist abuse to Aussies players like Michael Clarke, Andrew Symonds, and Ricky Ponting.

At the same time, Australian players were accused of lousy sportsmanship for attempting to influence the umpire's decision, resulting in several issues, and being touted as the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Nonetheless, Australia won the game on Day 5 with minutes to spare, giving them a 2-0 series lead after winning the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

·   2008 Perth

The Perth Test from the 2008 Border-Gasvaskar Trophy deserves to be included. Even though it only lasted four days, the game alternated between the two teams from session to session. The Anil-Kumble-led squad fought after falling 0-2 in the series to defeat the hosts and make it 2-1 heading into the final Test. At the time, no team had beaten the Australians at the WACA in Perth in almost eleven years.

To make matters better, it was India's first victory in Australia in over four years. It was much more crucial for the Indian team and spectators since the Test triumph in Perth came shortly after the SCG Test, which was beset by numerous issues, mainly the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Overall, this match signified the impeccable grit and resilience of the Indian Cricket team.

·   2018 Melbourne

India's close victory over Australia in the series opener of the 2018-19 Tour in Melbourne provided a glimpse of how India will be a dominant red-ball team overseas. India got bowled out for 250 when Virat Kohli chose to bat first despite Cheteshwar Pujara's valiant 123. However, Indian spinners remained strong and never let the Australian batters settle in.

Travis Head top-scored with 72 as Australia were dismissed for 235, behind India by 15 runs. The visitors then extended their advantage by 307 runs, giving Australia a colossal target of 323 runs. The Indian bowlers grabbed the initiative, like they had in the previous innings, and bowled the hosts out for 291. Bumrah, Shami, and Ashwin took three wickets each as India.

·   2021 Brisbane

The Indian-Aussies clash up match in 2021 at the Gabba was an exciting and historic encounter, providing edge-of-the-seat cricketing entertainment. Australia won the toss and chose to bat first, amassing 369 runs in the opening innings. Marnus Labuschagne scored 108 runs, and debutant Washington Sundar took four wickets for India. In response, India scored 336 runs, with Shardul Thakur leading the way with 67 runs.

As a result, the Australians were bowled out for 294, giving India a target of 328. India, despite early losses, demonstrated amazing perseverance. Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara established a solid platform, while Rishabh Pant's aggressive effort boosted India's hopes. On the final day, Pant's undefeated 89 runs lead India to a historic three-wicket triumph. India won their first Test at the Gabba, breaking Australia's 32-year unbroken record there. It was also India's second straight Test series win in Australia.

Scenes of absolute comedy ensued when Sarfaraz dropped a simple catch during the first day of India's pre-match ahead of the first Test. Sarfaraz was accompanied by Virat Kohli, Rishab Pant, and Dhruv Jurel who were all in close proximity to him. The group was in the midst of a routine fielding drill when this incident occured. 

Sarfaraz made a simple catch look too difficult when he attempted to gobble the ball with his palms out next to his face triggering an instant reaction from Virat, Pant, and Jurel who were left in splits. 

Here is how the incident unfolded 

The ball flew to the left of Sarfaraz at a very catchable height. What was supposed to be regulation catch turned out to be a moment of absolute comedy. Once the catch went down, players next to him could not hold their emoitions and immediately burst into laughter. 

What did Sarfaraz do? 🤪🤪 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/P2PgQ5KAJX

— Chloe-Amanda Bailey (@ChloeAmandaB) November 19, 2024

That moment immideatly triggered a funny response from Kohli and Jurel who were seen covering their mouth whilst laughing whereas Pant couldn't stop laughing either and was left floored by the hilarious moment.  

How are they gearing up for the Perth showdown?

As per emerging reports, it is believed that Sarfaraz Khan may not get to feature in the playing Xl for the Perth Test. However, his wicket-keeping counter part Rishab Pant is set to play the first test as a wicket-keeper batsman in all likelihood. Moreover, with Gill ruled out due to a thumb injury, Devdutt Padikkal gets an opportunity to open the batting for India in the upcoming Test while Jurel is likely to play as frontline batter. All eyes will be on king Kohli and his deteoriating form and whether or not he will be able to reclaim his lost glory in Australia in his dying phase of his Test career. 

See also: Watch: Virat Kohli reveals his best Test knock in Australia
   

India vs. Australia has been one of the most exciting rivalries in cricket history, delivering unforgettable matches since their first encounter in 1947-48. The contrasting playing conditions in the two countries add a layer of intrigue, making every series unique. Over the decades, many Indian batters have risen to the challenge, dominating Australian bowlers at home and away.

Here’s a look at the top five Indian batters who have scored the most runs against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Virat Kohli – 2042 Runs

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has an outstanding record against Australia across formats. In Test cricket, he ranks fifth among Indians with the most runs against the Aussies.

In 25 matches, Kohli has amassed 2042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries (the second-most by an Indian vs. Australia) and five half-centuries. His highest score of 186 reflects his dominance with the bat. Kohli's leadership was historic; under him, India secured their first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018-19.

4. Cheteshwar Pujara – 2074 Runs

Known for his grit and resilience, Cheteshwar Pujara has been a thorn in Australia’s side. Between 2010 and 2023, Pujara played 25 Tests against them, scoring 2074 runs at an average of 49.38.

Pujara was instrumental in India’s victories in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, emerging as the highest scorer in 2016-17 and 2018-19, and the second-highest in 2020-21. His tally includes five centuries and 11 half-centuries, proving his consistency across challenging conditions.

3. Rahul Dravid – 2143 Runs

Rahul Dravid, often referred to as The Wall, was a dependable batter for India in tough situations. Against Australia, he played 32 Tests between 1996 and 2012, scoring 2143 runs at an average of 39.68.

Dravid's contributions included two centuries and 13 half-centuries. His memorable 233 at Adelaide in 2003, and his partnership with VVS Laxman at Eden Gardens in 2001, underline his significance in India’s Test cricket history.

2. VVS Laxman – 2434 Runs

VVS Laxman had a special connection with playing against Australia, producing some of his career-best performances. He scored 2434 runs in 29 Tests between 1998 and 2012 at an impressive average of 49.67.

His innings of 281 at Eden Gardens in 2001 remains one of the greatest Test knocks of all time, helping India achieve a famous comeback win. Laxman’s six centuries and 12 half-centuries against Australia further highlight his ability to perform under pressure.

See Also: Watch: Travis Head looks set to bring back WC 2023 nightmare

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 3630 Runs

The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar tops the list with 3630 runs against Australia, the most by any Indian and second-most overall in Test cricket. Tendulkar played 39 Tests against Australia from 1991 to 2013, averaging 55 with 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries.

His innings of 241 not out in Sydney in 2004 showcased his mastery over the Australian bowlers. Tendulkar’s consistency and ability to rise to the occasion made him the Aussies’ biggest challenge for over two decades.

The India-Australia rivalry in Test cricket is more than just a contest—it’s a battle of grit, skill, and legacy. These five batters have left an indelible mark on this storied competition, inspiring generations of cricketers and fans alike.

Star India batter Virat Kohli returns to Perth, where it all started. It was way back in 2012 that Kohli first made headlines with his fiery batting. Now, older, mature and less consistent, he returns to Perth again as India prepares for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener as well.

Kohli’s journey at the WACA started way back in 2012 when, as a 23-year-old, he responded to the criticism, top-scoring with 44 on a tough and bouncy WACA pitch, he showed his skill, scoring 75 in the second innings despite India’s defeat as well. Now, in 2024, he once again returned to the same ground, looking to find his old form.

However, Virat Kohli’s recent performances, with only two centuries in five years and a poor average, have raised eyebrows as well. Meanwhile, Australian media, which is supportive of the home team, has backed Kohli since their arrival. This support contrasts with the past incidents, especially that which Kohli faced after he clashed with a Sydney crowd.

Notably, in 2012, Australian players sledged Kohli but he scored a century in Adelaide, saying, “Responding verbally and then scoring a century makes it even sweeter.” He also criticized the SCG crowd for their behavior, adding, “Don’t get drunk and abuse players.”

SEE ALSO: Star player dropped as India women announced squad for Australia series

Virat Kohli returns to Perth to regain his form

While Perth and Adelaide in 2012 played a key role in Kohli’s rise, it was Adelaide in 2014 that helped him seal his place in the side. Kohli scored centuries in both innings, including a stunning 141 under tough conditions. His knock grabbed eyeballs and fans praised Kohli’s aggressive spirit, especially how he played against Mitchell Johnson, alongside his fiery 169 at the MCG during the Boxing Day Test.

In 2018, at Optus Stadium, he scored 123 off 257 balls. Although India lost that Test, his leadership helped them win the series 2-1 as well. In December 2020, Kohli played only the first Test before returning home for the birth of his child as well. He scored 74 off 180 balls before being run out. However, India won the series 2-1 under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy in his absence.

Virat Kohli could break a few records

Meanwhile, he is on the verge of achieving several milestones in the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, he can go past the former India head coach Rahul Dravid on the list of India's highest run-getters in the longer format against Australia. Currently, Kohli has 2042 runs and needs only 125 runs to overtake Dravid on the elite list.

However, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar has scored 3630 runs in 39 matches whereas VVS Laxman took 29 matches to score 2434 runs. Rahul Dravid smashed 2143 runs in 32 matches whereas star India batter Cheteshwar Pujara also scored 2074 runs in 25 matches so far as well. And, Virat Kohli has a great chance to surpass them as he has 2042 runs in his name so far.

It will be interesting to see how he performs in the place where it all began.

While the Indian national cricket team is ready to begin their journey in the upcoming five-match away Test series against Australia, former Indian captain Virat Kohli revealed his best Test knock in Australia.

Before the beginning of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, the Indian cricketers had fun as one player was asking one question to another teammate. During this interaction, the Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj asked Virat Kohli about his best knock in Australia, including mentioning the season.

Virat Kohli's answer

In reply, Kohli had no hesitation in choosing his best Test innings knock in Australia. The right-handed batter chose his performance in the Perth Test during the 2018/19 season. He feels that it was the toughest pitch he has played in his Test career. 

As a captain, Kohli scored 123 runs off 257 balls with the help of 13 fours and one six. In the reply to Australia’s first innings total of 326 runs at the Perth Stadium, Kohli played an important role in India’s first innings. His batting helped India to score 283 runs, where Ajinkya Rahane was the second-highest scorer in that innings with 51 runs.  

However, India lost that Perth Test by 146 runs, where Kohli was dismissed for 17 runs in the fourth innings. Meanwhile, India successfully recorded their historic Test series win on that tour (2-1). It was India’s first Test series win in Australia.  

Some other questions and answers

Without knowing the answerer, Kohli then asked what was the one thing he was looking for the most on this tour. Washington Sundar replied that he would lift the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. 

While Sundar asked the question about the most famous person on the contact list, KL Rahul unsurprisingly replied with Virat Kohli. 

Later, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin asked how many hundreds you wanted to score in Australia. In reply, Shubman Gill said as many hundred as possible. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Indian batting legend Virat Kohli is on the verge of achieving several milestones in the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After a humiliating 3-0 series whitewash against New Zealand on home soil, India are all set to take on Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. Ahead of the first Test in Perth, there are some records that Virat Kohli could break during the series.

India to play a five-match Test series against Australia

However, Virat Kohli has been the batting mainstay of India across formats. He has always brought his best game against the mighty Aussies. Moreover, as per stats, Virat Kohli is India's second most successful batter after Sachin Tendulkar against Australia in international cricket. Although the batter has scored more than 5000 runs against the Aussies, he is still 1504 runs behind Sachin Tendulkar, who is at the top with 6707 runs. 

However, Kohli has 16 international centuries against Australia and he needs five more centuries to surpass Tendulkar, who currently holds the record for the most international centuries (20) against the Aussies. Moreover, Virat Kohli has eight tons as compared to Tendulkar's tally of eleven centuries against Australia in Test cricket as well.

Even if Virat Kohli fails to break Tendulkar's aforementioned record, he can go past the legendary Rahul Dravid on the list of India's highest run-getters in the longer format against Australia. Currently, Kohli has 2042 runs and requires only 125 runs to overtake Dravid on the elite list as well.

SEE ALSO: 'Gautam Gambhir is already frightened' - Ricky Ponting takes a fresh jibe ahead of BGT

Most Runs By Indian Batters vs Australia In Tests

Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar has scored 3630 runs in 39 matches whereas VVS Laxman took 29 matches: 29 to score 2434 runs. Former Indian legend as well as head coach Rahul Dravid smashed 2143 runs in 32 matches: 32 as well. Meanwhile, star India batter Cheteshwar Pujara also scored 2074 runs in 25 matches so far as well. And, Virat Kohli has a great chance to go past them as he has 2042 runs in his name which came from 25 matches so far as well.