The era of Virat Kohli in Indian Test cricket, which spanned from his debut in 2011 until his retirement in 2025, was marked by a golden phase for Indian cricket, particularly in the longest format. Kohli’s leadership, intensity, and hunger for success reshaped the team’s approach to Test cricket. While Kohli’s maintained a strong batting average throughout his career, several Indian batters also delivered exceptional performances during this period. Looking at the best batting averages of Indian players in Tests involving Kohli offers insight into the batting stalwarts of this transformative era.
Virat Kohli played 113 Tests between 2011 and 2025, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 49.29. While he was undoubtedly the backbone of the Indian batting lineup, a few other names also shone with consistent performances, particularly in tough overseas conditions.
Rohit Sharma, who evolved into a dependable Test opener during Kohli’s captaincy, posted an impressive average of 46.13. He played many of his best innings in home conditions, but also began to prove himself abroad later in his career. His ability to dominate spinners and play long innings helped India gain solid starts in several series.
Cheteshwar Pujara was another key figure throughout Kohli’s reign. Known for his patience and resilience at the crease, Pujara accumulated over 7,000 runs at an average in the low 40s. Though not as flashy as some of his peers, his role in wearing down bowling attacks made him indispensable, especially in away series.
Ajinkya Rahane, often viewed as India’s crisis man, especially in overseas Tests, contributed more than 4,900 runs during the Kohli era at an average of around 38. His memorable knocks in Melbourne, Lord’s, and Johannesburg played crucial roles in India’s rare away victories.
Shubman Gill, who made his debut towards the latter part of Kohli’s time, displayed immense promise. Though his sample size was small compared to the veterans, Gill’s early average hovered around the mid-40s, indicating his potential to carry the baton forward.
Mayank Agarwal, with limited opportunities, also boasted a solid average in the low 40s. His initial few Test appearances, especially his debut series in Australia, were marked by confident stroke play and composed batting at the top of the order.
KL Rahul, while fluctuating in form, played several vital innings. His average remained in the mid-30s, but he had the knack for delivering in crucial situations, especially in England and Australia.
Despite playing fewer Tests, Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant also made vital contributions. Pant, in particular, changed the complexion of Test matches with his counter-attacking style. His average hovered around 40, but his impact in games was far more substantial than the numbers alone would suggest.
While Kohli’s own contributions were massive, India’s strength during this period was the presence of a solid batting core. The blend of experienced players and new talent ensured that India remained a dominant force in Tests, home and away. This period will be remembered not only for Kohli’s achievements but also for the sustained excellence of Indian batters who rose to the occasion time and again.
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