Sydney: As Virat Kohli walked off the field after what is likely his final Test innings in Australia, the reception from the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) was a curious mix of boos and cheers. The Indian superstar, who has long been both admired and antagonized by Australian fans, left the pitch with the same intensity that has defined his career since his first tour of Australia in 2011-12.
For many Australian fans, Kohli is synonymous with Indian cricket. His fiery personality, combined with his remarkable performances, has created an unforgettable narrative over the years. But this final chapter in Australia seemed to mark the end of an era, leaving both fans and players reflecting on the legacy of one of cricket’s greatest competitors.
A Career Defined by Grit and Controversy
Virat Kohli’s relationship with Australian cricket began in 2011-12, a series remembered as much for his fiery temper as for his talent. Infamously flipping the bird to a section of the SCG crowd during the second Test, Kohli’s unapologetic aggression set the tone for what would become his hallmark.
Later in the series, Kohli silenced critics with his first Test century at the Adelaide Oval. Reflecting on that moment, he said, “To give it back verbally and then score a hundred is even better… They sledge when they’re frustrated. Today, they were upset because I got a hundred.”
That unyielding determination has been a constant throughout his career, earning him the respect of opponents and fans alike. Kohli’s record in Australia speaks for itself: 1,542 runs in 18 Tests, including seven centuries—the most by any Indian player on Australian soil.
The Aussie Connection
For Australian fans, Kohli has always been at the center of their focus when India visits. Advertisements and headlines in the lead-up to the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series centered on the Kohli vs. Pat Cummins rivalry. Even as other Indian stars like Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah shone, Kohli’s presence loomed largest.
In 30 Tests against Australia, Kohli amassed 2,232 runs, including nine centuries, with his fiery personality often adding to the drama. Whether it was his shoulder charge on 19-year-old Sam Konstas or his sandpaper-related taunts, Kohli remained unafraid to spark controversy.
Signs of Decline
Despite flashes of brilliance, the Kohli on display in this series seemed a shadow of his former self. His inability to rediscover consistent form was evident, particularly with repeated dismissals outside the off-stump. Over his last 40 Tests, his average has dipped to 32.29—well below his career standards.
Experts, including former India coach Greg Chappell, have attributed this decline to the mental strain of maintaining focus at the highest level. “It’s not about hand-eye coordination or technique,” Chappell said. “It’s about the mental space. Life changes, responsibilities grow, and that impacts your ability to give the game the single-minded focus it demands.”
The Final Chapter
In what might be his last series against Australia, Kohli showed glimpses of his old self. His century in Perth reignited hope among fans and set record attendance figures for the matches that followed. However, the fiery spark that once made him Australia’s most feared rival seemed to fade as the series progressed.
At the SCG, Kohli briefly recaptured his trademark passion as stand-in captain after Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined with injury. Charging onto the field with a bat over his shoulder, he seemed ready to take the game on. But his efforts fell short, and Australia emerged dominant.
A Legacy of Theatre and Rivalry
Australian captain Pat Cummins summed up Kohli’s impact, saying, “It’s always more than just the runs he scores. It’s the theatre, the added drama he brings to the game. If this is his last series, it’ll be a shame not to see him here again.”
Virat Kohli’s journey in Australia began with fire and aggression, and while it may have ended on a quieter note, his legacy remains unforgettable. For both fans and players, Kohli’s presence has been a reminder of cricket’s intensity and unpredictability, a combination that will be deeply missed in future contests Down Under.
