Adelaide: Cricket fans at the Adelaide Oval witnessed an emotional yet somber moment on Thursday as Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest modern-day batters, endured a rare failure in what could be his final international appearance at the historic ground. The former captain was dismissed for a second consecutive duck, leaving Indian supporters heartbroken as he waved to the crowd on his way back.
Kohli’s dismissal came early in India’s innings during the second ODI against Australia, when he misjudged an inswinger from Xavier Bartlett. The delivery darted back sharply, trapping him leg before wicket after just four balls. The on-field umpire’s decision stood firm, as Kohli’s brief deliberation over a review was halted by batting partner Rohit Sharma, who advised against it.
The wicket marked another low point for Kohli, who had also fallen for a duck in the opening match at Perth—his first-ever in Australia. While he had shown glimpses of rhythm in the nets before the game, his much-anticipated return to form at one of his most successful venues did not materialize.
Adelaide has long been regarded as Kohli’s happy hunting ground — a stadium where he has thrilled spectators with several memorable innings over the years. His career tally of 976 runs at the Oval remains the highest by any overseas batter. On this occasion, however, the script flipped, and fans were left applauding not his trademark cover drives but his illustrious legacy instead.
As he walked off, visibly disappointed, Kohli paused to acknowledge the crowd that had gathered in large numbers, many wearing his No. 18 jersey. The Adelaide spectators rose to their feet, offering a standing ovation that reflected both respect and gratitude for his years of brilliance.
Earlier in the innings, India had made a cautious start after being sent in to bat, but Australia struck twice in quick succession — removing Shubman Gill and then Kohli in the same over. The pressure fell squarely on captain Rohit Sharma, who battled through a slow start against Josh Hazlewood, managing 19 runs off 43 deliveries.
Both Rohit and Kohli are returning to international action after a lengthy break following the IPL 2025 season, and the rust was evident. Their timing and footwork, once impeccable, seemed to desert them in the face of disciplined Australian bowling.
For Indian fans, the day ended with mixed emotions — sorrow over Kohli’s early exit, but pride in watching a legend take his final bow at a venue that has witnessed some of his finest moments. Whether this truly marks the end of Kohli’s Adelaide chapter remains to be seen, but for now, the image of him waving goodbye under the evening sky will linger in the memories of cricket fans across the world.
