File photo of Virat Kohli as he plays a shot during the 2nd ODI match against Australia, at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.
| Photo Credit: ANI
Back in November 2016, Visakhapatnam had its moment of cricketing glory when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) awarded it the opportunity to host its first ever Test match between India and England. It was a moment for celebration by the then Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu graced the Dr. YSR ACA-VDCA Stadium, unveiling a commemorative pylon and presenting mementoes to both Indian and English players.
It was a historic day for the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) and the cricket fans of Andhra Pradesh. The red ball cricket had arrived in the region for the first time, drawing thousands from across the state. By the time of the toss, the stadium was packed.
What made the match more interesting was Kohli’s stellar form in 2016. That year, he averaged over 70 across all formats. He scored a record-breaking 973 runs in the IPL taking Royal Challengers Bangalore to its final. With 273 runs in just five T20’s he took India to semi-final in T20 World Cup. He had already led India to Test series win in the West Indies and at home against New Zealand. Fans had sky-high expectations.
For the first time, cricket lovers from Uttarandhra saw “Virat in whites.” The stadium erupted as Kohli walked out for the toss alongside England’s Alastair Cook. Fans waved signs that reading “We have come here for Virat,” and chants of “Kohli, Kohli” reverberated the stadium.
India, opting to bat first, posted a commanding 455 in the first innings, with Kohli scoring a majestic 167 and Pujara contributing 119. The 226-run partnership between them lit up the crowd. Kohli was at his best dispatching cover drives and confidently taking on England’s pace attack comprising Anderson, Broad, and Stokes
“It was a magnificent first day. Watching Virat score a ton in whites, dominate James Anderson who had troubled him in 2014 was unforgettable,” said Sukumaran Sashikanth, a passionate cricket fan.
England responded with 255, with Ben Stokes top-scoring with 70. Kohli’s leadership was evident not just tactically, but he urged the crowd to cheer louder, energising bowlers during dry spells.
Kohli chose not to enforce the follow-on. Kohli continued his love affair with Visakhapatnam and scored a composed 81 in the second innings, setting England a target of 405. The visitors crumbled for 158, and India won by a massive 246 runs. Kohli’s knocks of 167 and 81 earned him the well-deserved Man of the Match (MoM) award.
At the presentation ceremony, Kohli said, “This ACA-VDCA stadium in Visakhapatnam has been a lucky ground for me. Every innings I have scored here. I get a good feel coming here, similar to Adelaide” The crowd who were waiting to watch Virat collect the MoM trophy roared, savouring the moment with their hero.
Three years later, in October 2019, Kohli returned to Visakhapatnam for another memorable Test, this time against South Africa. This match turned out to be a defining moment for Rohit Sharma, who opened the batting for the first time in Tests under Kohli’s captaincy. Rohit grabbed the opportunity with both hands, scoring 176 and 127 in the two innings. India won by 203 runs, and Rohit cemented his place as a Test opener for years to come.
“Kohli’s two Test matches in Visakhapatnam have produced some of India’s greatest wins. His energy in whites is unmatched. His absence in the current Test setup leaves a void that’s hard to fill,” reflects Rahgav, a cricket buff.
Published – May 12, 2025 09:34 pm IST