Team India is ramping up its preparations at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) ahead of the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25). Among the players putting in extra effort in the nets is Virat Kohli, who, despite facing a dip in form, remains a pivotal figure for the visitors.
Although Kohli’s recent outings in the BGT have been below par, his record against Australia speaks volumes. The Delhi-born batter has amassed over 2,000 Test runs against the Aussies, averaging an impressive 46.12. His dominance has earned him admiration not only in India but globally, making him a cricketing icon for fans of all ages.
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This widespread admiration was captured in a heartwarming viral video where an Australian father, observing the Indian team’s practice session at the MCG, pointed out Kohli to his young son, calling him “the best batter in the world.” The father encouraged his son to closely watch Kohli’s batting, underscoring the impact of the Indian star on cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Look how the father introduces Virat Kohli to his son! 🥰❤️#ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/rGXqSu4wZh
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) December 22, 2024
Kohli began the BGT 2024-25 on a high note with an unbeaten century (100*) in Perth, but his struggles outside the off-stump have since hindered his contributions. However, the Boxing Day Test at the MCG offers him a chance to reignite his form, as the ground has been a happy hunting spot for him in the past.
In his three Test appearances at the MCG, Virat Kohli boasts an impressive average of 52.57, including two half-centuries and a century. His most notable performance at the venue came in 2014, when he scored a resilient 169 against a formidable Australian pace attack featuring Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, and Josh Hazlewood.
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With such a rich history at this venue, Virat Kohli will aim to channel his previous successes and anchor India’s innings. As the series hangs in the balance, a return to form for Kohli could be the turning point Team India needs to tilt the momentum in their favor.
