New Delhi: Virat Kohli continues to rewrite the history books with his stunning performances in Australia, achieving yet another milestone in his illustrious career. His century at Perth’s Optus Stadium on Sunday marks his seventh Test hundred on Australian soil, equalling the record for most Test centuries by an Indian batsman in a single overseas country, held by none other than Sunil Gavaskar.
Kohli’s achievement takes his tally of international hundreds in Australia to 10, the most by any visiting batsman. This surpasses the previous record of 9 Test centuries held by England’s Jack Hobbs, reinforcing Kohli's standing as one of the greatest to have played the game.
With nine Test centuries against Australia, Kohli now shares a special place in the history of the iconic rivalry, alongside legends like Gavaskar, who holds the record for the most Test hundreds against Australia by an Indian, with eight.
Gavaskar’s legendary career, especially against Australia, has long been celebrated. As one of India’s finest-ever batsmen, Gavaskar’s record of 13 Test centuries against West Indies and 11 against Australia has set a benchmark that few have come close to matching. His eight hundreds against Australia was a monumental feat when it was achieved, and with Kohli's continued dominance, it has become clear that this rivalry has shaped two of the game’s greatest.
Kohli’s latest innings at Perth, which was crucial in India’s recovery, highlights not only his individual brilliance but also his consistency across formats. His seven Test centuries in Australia now places him in the same league as Gavaskar, who set the tone for Indian cricket abroad during his historic tours of Australia in the 1970s and 1980s.
As India battles to turn the tide in the ongoing Test match, Kohli’s heroics have taken the spotlight, but it’s worth remembering the legacy of Gavaskar, whose record Kohli now equals.
Gavaskar's contributions to Indian cricket, particularly in overseas conditions, remain a vital part of India’s rich cricketing history. Kohli, however, seems poised to continue his own record-breaking journey, adding to the legacy of Indian batsmanship abroad.
As India looks to push forward in Perth, Kohli’s performance is a testament to the enduring legacy of India’s greatest cricketers, both past and present.
