Virat Kohli, one of India’s cricketing giants, is gearing up to make history in the upcoming IND vs AUS 3rd Test of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at the Gabba, Brisbane. With a stellar career marked by numerous achievements, the stylish right-hander has already made his mark as one of the most successful batters in Indian cricket history. As Kohli steps up to the crease in the 3rd Test, there are several key records within his reach that could add to his already legendary status in world cricket.
Here’s a look at 6 major records Virat Kohli can break in the IND vs AUS 3rd Test and how they could cement his place in the cricketing elite.
1. 10 Centuries Against Australia: Kohli Chasing Tendulkar’s Record
Virat Kohli currently has 9 centuries against Australia, including seven on Australian soil. A century in the third Test will not only make him the second Indian batter to score 10 centuries against Australia, but it will also bring him closer to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who leads the list with 11 centuries. Kohli’s consistency against Australia, particularly in Australia, makes him a strong contender to achieve this milestone.
- Current Record Holders:
- Sachin Tendulkar (11 centuries)
- Virat Kohli (9 centuries)
- Jack Hobbs (12 centuries, all-time leader)
2. 8 Centuries in Australia: Kohli Eyes Second Spot
Out of his 9 centuries against Australia, 7 have come on Australian soil. One more century in the Gabba Test will push Kohli into second place in the list of batters with the most centuries in Australia, behind only English legend Jack Hobbs, who has 9. Achieving this feat will not only boost Kohli’s legacy but also highlight his dominance in Australian conditions.
- Current Record Holders for Centuries in Australia:
- Jack Hobbs (9 centuries)
- Virat Kohli (7 centuries, could reach 8 with one more)
3. 1,500 Runs in Australia: Kohli Joins an Elite Club
Virat Kohli is only 25 runs shy of reaching 1,500 runs in Australia, a remarkable feat that only a handful of players have achieved. A solid knock in the 3rd Test will make Kohli the 10th batter in history, and only the second Indian after Sachin Tendulkar (1,809 runs), to score 1,500 runs in Australia. This milestone would further elevate Kohli’s status as one of the finest overseas players in Test cricket.
- Notable Milestones:
- Sachin Tendulkar (1,809 runs)
- Virat Kohli (1,500 runs)
4. 30 Catches Against Australia: Kohli Closing in on a Fielding Milestone
Kohli currently holds 28 catches against Australia in Tests. Two more catches would see him join an elite list of Indian fielders who have taken 30 or more catches against Australia. Only Rahul Dravid (46) and VVS Laxman (36) have achieved this feat before him. Kohli’s sharp fielding in the slips could see him reach this milestone in the third Test, enhancing his all-around cricketing legacy.
- Indian Players with 30+ Catches Against Australia:
- Rahul Dravid (46 catches)
- VVS Laxman (36 catches)
- Virat Kohli (28 catches, needs 2 more for 30)
5. 15 Catches in Australia: Kohli Nearing an Exclusive Club
Virat Kohli is just one catch away from becoming the third Indian to complete 15 catches in Australia in Test cricket. VVS Laxman (18) and Sachin Tendulkar (16) have already achieved this, and Kohli’s catch in the 3rd Test would see him join this exclusive club. His sharp reflexes and agile fielding make him a key figure in the Indian team’s slip cordon, and he’s set to reach this achievement in the upcoming Test.
- Indian Fielders with 15+ Catches in Australia:
- VVS Laxman (18 catches)
- Sachin Tendulkar (16 catches)
- Virat Kohli (14 catches, needs 1 more)
6. 60 Catches in Away Tests: Kohli Set to Join the 60 Club
Virat Kohli has 59 catches in away Tests, and a single catch in the 3rd Test will see him become the fourth Indian to take 60 catches in away matches. He would join an elite list that includes Rahul Dravid (111), VVS Laxman (74), and Sachin Tendulkar (68). Kohli’s fielding, especially in difficult overseas conditions, is a testament to his all-round skills, and this record will add another feather to his cap.
- Indian Fielders with 60+ Away Catches:
- Rahul Dravid (111 catches)
- VVS Laxman (74 catches)
- Sachin Tendulkar (68 catches)
- Virat Kohli (59 catches, needs 1 more)
Conclusion: Kohli’s Quest for Records in IND vs AUS 3rd Test
As the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli to see if he can break multiple records. Whether it’s reaching 10 centuries against Australia, surpassing 1,500 runs Down Under, or joining an exclusive club of Indian fielders, Kohli’s potential to make history in this match is immense. His return to form in the first Test and a challenging performance in Adelaide show that the champion batter is ready to take on the Aussies once again at the Gabba.
With these records in sight, Kohli continues to solidify his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest players, and his upcoming performance will be one to watch for fans and cricket experts alike.
