Australia and India are gearing up for the second ODI of the series, scheduled to be played at the iconic Adelaide Oval. After a seven-wicket loss (DLS method) in Perth, India will be eager to bounce back and level the series. The spotlight, however, will once again be on Virat Kohli, who endured a rare failure in the previous match, falling for a duck.
As the series shifts to Adelaide, fans and experts alike are optimistic about a comeback from the modern batting great. The reason? Kohli’s impressive record at this very venue, where he has delivered some of his most memorable ODI performances.
Adelaide Oval: A venue of fond memories for Virat Kohli
The Adelaide Oval has been a happy hunting ground for Kohli. Known for its true bounce and fast outfield, the venue perfectly suits his elegant stroke play and impeccable timing. Over the years, Kohli has built a strong affinity with Adelaide, often rising to the occasion when India needed him the most.
In four ODI appearances at the venue, Kohli has amassed 244 runs at an average of 61, including two centuries. His highest score at the ground stands at 107, a testament to his ability to dominate attacks in Australian conditions. For a player who thrives under pressure, Adelaide has consistently brought out his best.
Success against Australia in their own backyard
Kohli’s success at the Adelaide Oval is not limited to neutral encounters; his performances against Australia there are equally exceptional. In two ODIs against the hosts, he has scored 122 runs at an average of 61, including a memorable century (104) that showcased his class and composure against a world-class attack.
That particular innings remains etched in the memory of Indian fans — a masterclass in chasing under lights, where Kohli combined aggression with precision to guide India home. His ability to handle the Australian pace attack and adapt to the conditions has made him one of the most feared batters in this part of the world.
High expectations ahead of second ODI
Coming into the second ODI, Kohli finds himself under pressure to deliver. After missing several ODI matches this year, his return in Perth didn’t go as planned. However, history suggests that a return to Adelaide could reignite the familiar fire in King Kohli. Team India will rely heavily on their senior batters, Rohit Sharma and Kohli, to anchor the innings and set up a strong total. A big knock from Kohli could not only boost India’s morale but also set the tone for the remainder of the series.
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