The highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia is just around the corner, set to take place at the historic Oval in London from June 7. As both teams gear up for this ultimate battle, the spotlight will be on two legendary players, Virat Kohli, and Steve Smith, often referred to as the current “Favorite-Four” (FAV-4).
While Kohli led India in the inaugural WTC final in 2021, he will focus on his batting prowess this time, while Smith aims to maintain his exceptional Test record. Analyzing their performances in England, Smith has outshined Kohli in every aspect, setting the stage for an exciting clash between these two cricketing titans.
Virat Kohli’s Test record in England has been a mixed bag. In 31 innings, he has accumulated 1033 runs at an average of 33.32, including five fifties and two centuries. His highest score in England is 149, but he has also been dismissed for a duck on four occasions. While his numbers might not be extraordinary, Kohli can significantly impact the game and overcome his previous challenges.
Steve Smith’s performance in Tests in England has been remarkable, overshadowing Kohli in every aspect. In 30 innings, Smith has amassed 1727 runs at an impressive average of 59.55, including seven half-centuries and six centuries. His highest score in England is 215, and notably, he has never been dismissed for a duck in Tests on English soil. Smith’s ability to dominate in challenging conditions makes him a formidable opponent for the Indian team.
Regarding overall Test records, both Kohli and Smith have made their mark in the cricketing world. Kohli has accumulated 8416 runs in 108 matches at an average of 48.93, including 28 half-centuries and 28 centuries. His highest score stands at an impressive 254 not out. On the other hand, Smith has amassed 8792 runs in 96 Tests at an exceptional average of 59.81, including 37 half-centuries and 30 centuries. Smith’s highest Test score is 239.
Kohli and Smith have showcased their brilliance when facing each other’s teams. Kohli has scored 1979 runs in 24 Tests against Australia at an average of 48.27, including five half-centuries and eight centuries. His highest score against Australia is 186.
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Meanwhile, Smith has amassed 1887 runs in 18 Tests against India at an outstanding average of 65.07, comprising five half-centuries and eight centuries. These two players thrive on the challenge of playing against each other.
As the World Test Championship final unfolds at the Oval, Kohli, and Smith will aim to leave their mark on this historic ground. Kohli’s record at the Oval includes 169 runs in three Tests at an average of 28.16, with a solitary half-century. In contrast, Smith boasts an impressive record of 391 runs in three Tests at the Oval, averaging a staggering 97.75, including two centuries and a half-century. This highlights Smith’s comfort and dominance at this venue.
