Cricket fans around the world are buzzing with excitement as Virat Kohli, one of the greatest batters of the modern era, is all set to make his international comeback. After more than seven months away from international cricket, the 36-year-old Indian superstar will return to action when India faces Australia in the first ODI in Perth on Sunday.
Sign Up Now
This game marks a significant moment in Kohli’s illustrious career. Having already retired from Test cricket earlier this year and from T20Is after India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, Kohli is now primarily an ODI specialist. However, there’s still some uncertainty surrounding his future in the format, as reports suggest that he might not continue until the 2027 World Cup. Despite that, Kohli’s immediate focus is on a historic milestone a world record that only he can break in this upcoming three-match ODI series.
“Virat Kohli” Chasing a World Record
Virat Kohli needs just one more century to create history the most hundreds by a batter in a single format. He currently has 51 ODI centuries, tying him with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who holds 51 Test tons. If Kohli scores another hundred against Australia, he will move past Tendulkar and become the first player ever to hit 52 centuries in one format of international cricket.
In the grand scheme of cricket history, Tendulkar remains the all-time leader with 100 international centuries (51 in Tests and 49 in ODIs). Kohli is currently second on that elite list, with 82 international hundreds 51 in ODIs, 30 in Tests, and 1 in T20Is.
This remarkable consistency places Kohli in a league of his own. His hunger for runs, unmatched fitness, and mental toughness continue to define his game, even after more than a decade and a half at the top level.
Virat Kohli’s Love Affair With Australian Conditions
Australia has always been one of Virat Kohli’s favorite hunting grounds. His numbers there speak for themselves. In 29 ODIs played in Australia, he has scored 1,327 runs at an impressive average of 51.03 and a strike rate of 89+, including five centuries and six half-centuries. His highest ODI score in Australia is a masterful 133 not out.
His last few outings against Australia have been consistently brilliant 54, 56, 85, 54, and 84 showing how dependable he remains against one of the toughest bowling attacks in the world. Similarly, his last five ODI innings in Australia include scores of 104, 46, 21, 89, and 63, again underlining his strong record Down Under.
Interestingly, Virat Kohli already holds the record for the most centuries by a visiting player in Australia across all formats an incredible 17 hundreds. He will now have an opportunity to equal his teammate Rohit Sharma’s record of most ODI centuries against Australia in Australia. Rohit currently leads with four, while Kohli has three.
A Defining Comeback
This series is more than just another set of matches. It’s about legacy, records, and redemption. Kohli’s return not only boosts India’s batting lineup but also adds a psychological edge. His presence in the dressing room brings stability, inspiration, and a sense of belief that few cricketers can provide.
For fans, this is an emotional moment. The thought of watching Kohli back in the blue jersey, walking out to bat against Australia’s fiery pace attack under the Perth lights, feels special. Whether or not he scores his 52nd century in this series, Kohli’s determination and class continue to set the benchmark for professionalism in world cricket.
Final Thoughts
As India takes on Australia, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli. A single century could rewrite cricket history, and knowing Kohli’s drive, that milestone might just be a matter of time.
His journey from a young Delhi boy with raw talent to one of cricket’s greatest icons has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now, as he prepares for yet another milestone in Perth, one thing is certain the King is back, and the world will be watching.
Join E2Bet quickly & claim your free welcome bonus on your first registration.
Sign up now on E2Bet and grab your free bonus as a new player.
