For Virat Kohli, the Adelaide Oval isn’t just another cricket ground; it’s a cherished home away from home. The Indian batting sensation has often expressed his profound affection for this particular venue.
“I absolutely love playing at this ground,” Kohli once famously stated. “I don’t know what it is, but as soon as I step into this stadium, even just for nets, it immediately makes me feel at home. This ground and its wicket have always been incredibly kind to me.”
Image: Virat Kohli at Perth Stadium ahead of the first One Day International between Australia and India on October 19, 2025.
After a rare eight-ball duck in Perth, Kohli made a highly anticipated return to his happiest hunting ground. And what a comeback it was! During a recent net session at the Adelaide Oval, he appeared to be in sublime form, exhibiting his characteristic ‘Midas touch’ by hitting virtually every ball from the middle of the bat. His comfort and dominance were palpable, reaffirming his deep connection with the venue.
A reel, originally shared by the Adelaide Oval on their social media, vividly captured Kohli unleashing powerful strokes, perfectly connecting with each delivery. This impressive display in the nets signals his fierce determination to bounce back strongly after the previous game’s setback. Additionally, a featured video highlighted a discussion titled ‘Unfair at this stage!’: Virat Kohli’s childhood coach on the treatment of senior duo Virat-Rohit, indicating ongoing conversations around the team’s dynamics.
The upcoming Thursday’s second ODI against Australia could potentially be Kohli’s final appearance at the iconic Adelaide Oval. The stakes are incredibly high for the Indian team, who currently trail the series 0-1, making this match a crucial must-win encounter to keep their hopes alive.
Kohli’s record at the Adelaide Oval is nothing short of legendary. Across all formats, he has amassed an astounding five centuries at this venue – a personal best for him at any ground in his illustrious career. He also boasts four half-centuries here, maintaining an impressive average of 65.
Indeed, with a staggering 975 runs scored in 12 matches and 17 innings, including five centuries and four fifties, and a highest score of 141, Kohli stands as India’s all-time leading run-scorer at the Adelaide Oval. He is also widely acknowledged as the best visiting batter ever at this very ground – truly, his home away from home.
In the current year, Kohli has accumulated 275 runs in eight One Day Internationals, averaging 39.28, which includes one century and two half-centuries, with a top score of 100 not out.
The team’s performance in this pivotal Adelaide ODI will be absolutely vital for India to maintain their chances of winning the series Down Under, especially as this could be the last time this formidable duo graces the Australian pitches together.