Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has shown unwavering support for Virat Kohli, backing the star batter to overcome his struggles with deliveries outside the off-stump and potentially score up to four centuries in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Gavaskar, who has witnessed Kohli’s growth over the years, highlighted that the third Test, set to begin on December 14 at the Gabba in Brisbane, holds a special incentive for the former Indian captain.

Kohli made a strong start to the series, scoring a brilliant century in the second innings of the first Test in Perth. This century was his seventh in Australia, which helped him surpass the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries by an Indian batter in Australia. Gavaskar expressed that the milestone also puts Kohli in line for an exclusive achievement.

Virat Kohli has already scored hundreds in Adelaide, Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne. A century in Brisbane would see him join the elite club of visiting batters who have scored centuries at each of Australia’s five major Test venues, a feat only accomplished by Gavaskar and former England captain Alastair Cook.

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“If Kohli scores a century in Brisbane, it will not only be a great achievement but will also boost his confidence significantly,” said Sunil Gavaskar during a conversation with broadcasters. “He’s already scored centuries in Melbourne and Sydney, so the possibility of four centuries in this series is very much on the cards,” he added.

Despite Kohli’s recent struggles with deliveries outside the off-stump, which led to his dismissals in both innings of the second Test in Adelaide, Gavaskar remained optimistic. The second Test saw Kohli score a century in the first innings, but he was unable to carry that form into the second, contributing to India’s crushing 10-wicket loss.

Virat Kohli appeared low on confidence in Adelaide, especially against the pink ball, but Sunil Gavaskar was quick to defend the player, pointing out that even cricketing greats like Don Bradman faced series where they didn’t perform in every match. “Failure in one Test doesn’t define a player. Kohli will surely make a comeback in the remaining Tests,” Gavaskar remarked.

Addressing Kohli’s struggles with deliveries outside the off-stump, Gavaskar emphasized that this is a common challenge for most batters, particularly against Australia’s disciplined bowlers. He advised Kohli to play with caution against those deliveries, assuring that runs would follow.

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Kohli seemed to be in good spirits during India’s training session at the Gabba, ahead of the third Test. The former captain energized the team with a motivational talk and looked confident at the nets, particularly against deliveries outside the off-stump. His footwork appeared sharp, and he left the ball with composure, indicating he’s ready to take on the challenge in Brisbane.