Published By: Sanchari Das

BGT: Highest Indian Test Run-Scorer in Adelaide? No, It’s Not Tendulkar

Adelaide Oval has been a special stage for a number of Indian batters

When it comes to Indian batters at Adelaide, most would assume Sachin Tendulkar holds the crown. But the top spot belongs to somebody else who has amassed 509 runs here. He leads the pack with three centuries and one fifty in just eight innings. Following him is Rahul Dravid, with 401 runs. Virender Sehwag takes third place with 388 runs, while VVS Laxman and Cheteshwar Pujara follow with 337 and 331 runs, respectively. Surprisingly, Tendulkar—often considered India’s best—ranks sixth with 326 runs.

So, who is this Indian batter leading the race in Adelaide?

Kohli’s stellar stats at Adelaide Oval

Virat Kohli has turned Adelaide into his personal stage. Across four matches, he’s scored 509 runs at an impressive average of 63.62. His highest score here is 141; his tally includes three centuries and a half-century. Kohli’s numbers underline his dominance at a venue where many legends have struggled.

Although fans had been eagerly awaiting Virat Kohli’s return to form recently, the King has found his groove again after the Perth Test. Riding high on their victory over Australia, India now prepares for the Pink Ball Test at the Adelaide Oval. Ahead of this showdown, let’s dive into Kohli’s magnificent record at Adelaide—where he reigns supreme among Indian batters.

Maiden Test Century: 116 off 213 balls (2012)

Kohli’s love affair with Adelaide began in 2012 when he smashed his maiden Test century. Batting at No. 6 in challenging conditions, Kohli stood tall against a formidable Australian attack. His 116 off 213 balls, adorned with 11 boundaries and a six, was the lone bright spot in an otherwise dismal Indian performance.

India suffered a crushing defeat by 298 runs, but Kohli’s innings showcased his grit and composure. It wasn’t just a knock but a statement from a 23-year-old who would become one of the world’s finest batters.

A captaincy debut to remember: Twin tons (2014)

In 2014, Kohli marked his Test captaincy debut in style at Adelaide. He delivered two masterclass centuries, scoring 115 in the first innings and 141 in the second. The second innings, particularly, was a thrilling display of aggressive yet calculated batting. His 141 off 175 balls featured 16 boundaries and one six, keeping India in contention for an unlikely win.

Despite Kohli’s heroics, India fell short by 48 runs. Yet, his twin tons established him as a fearless leader and a batter capable of turning the tide single handedly.

Captain’s knock: 74 off 180 balls (2020)

Kohli’s brilliance wasn’t limited to centuries. In Adelaide's 2020 Pink Ball Test, he played a composed knock of 74 runs. Facing a fiery Australian bowling attack, Kohli anchored the innings with precision. His eight boundaries displayed vintage Kohli elegance. Unfortunately, a mix-up with Ajinkya Rahane resulted in Kohli’s run-out at a critical moment.

The innings ended at 244, but Kohli’s dismissal shifted the momentum. The second innings was a nightmare, with India bundled out for just 36 runs. Kohli managed only four runs, but his first-innings effort remained a highlight.

A special bond with Adelaide

Over the years, Adelaide has witnessed some of Kohli’s finest Test performances. His ability to adapt, counterattack, and dominate at this venue sets him apart. While India has had mixed results here, Kohli’s record is a testament to his game mastery. As India heads into another Pink Ball Test, fans will hope for yet another memorable Kohli innings at his happy hunting ground.