IND vs SA: Virat Kohli's Boxing Day Tests 426 Runs, 42.60 Avg, 1 Century, 2 Fifties, 2 Wins
As the Boxing Day Test beckons, a pivotal fixture for any cricketer, Kohli's historical performance in such encounters reflects a mixed bag.
Virat Kohli, a stalwart in the cricketing world, will once again shoulder the weight of colossal expectations, the roar of fervent fans, and the anticipation of potential milestones as he steps onto the pitch. Known for his stellar Test performances, particularly against South Africa, the spotlight intensifies on Kohli. In 14 Tests against the Proteas, he has amassed 1,236 runs at an impressive average of 56.18, featuring three centuries and four half-centuries across 24 innings, with a monumental best score of 254*.
His track record in South Africa is equally commendable, with 719 runs in seven Tests at an average of 51.35, including two centuries and three fifties in 14 innings. Virat's best in South Africa stands at 153. As the Boxing Day Test beckons, a pivotal fixture for any cricketer, Kohli's historical performance in such encounters reflects a mixed bag.
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Debuting in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in 2011, he endured a challenging start, scoring just 11 and 0 in two innings as India suffered a 122-run defeat. Subsequent Boxing Day Tests showcased improvement – against South Africa, he notched up 46 and 11, albeit in a losing cause, followed by a brilliant display against Australia, scoring 169 and 54 to secure a draw.
Virat's captaincy tenure marked a turning point in Boxing Day Tests, securing his first-ever win in such a fixture at MCG in 2014 with scores of 82 and 0 in both innings. However, at Centurion three years later, he faced a dip in form, managing only 35 and 18 in his fifth Boxing Day Test, yet contributing to India's triumph by 113 runs.
Having participated in five Boxing Day Tests overall, Virat has amassed 426 runs in 10 innings at an average of 42.60, featuring one century and two fifties. Notably, he has captained in two winning Boxing Day Tests, suffered two losses, and secured one draw. As Virat takes the field at Centurion, the match presents a golden opportunity for him to build on his rich vein of form and further embellish his Boxing Day Test legacy.
