Virat Kohli’s tenure as India’s Test captain, from 2014 to 2022, marked a defining era for Indian cricket, particularly in their performances away from home. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting credits Kohli’s leadership with turning around India’s fortunes in Test cricket, emphasizing his role in instilling a belief that the team could win in any conditions, even on traditionally tough overseas tours. This shift in mindset was crucial in making India one of the most formidable Test teams in the world.
Before Kohli took over the reins, India’s performances abroad had been patchy. While they remained dominant on home soil, especially in spin-friendly conditions, their overseas record was much less impressive. Kohli changed this narrative, leading India to historic victories, including their famous series win against Australia in 2018-19, when India became the first Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil. Ponting, who has always admired aggressive leadership, praised Kohli’s competitive spirit and fearless approach. This combination helped transform India’s image from a home-dominant side to a well-rounded team capable of succeeding anywhere.
Kohli’s impact wasn’t just about winning. He placed a strong emphasis on fitness and fast-bowling depth, areas where Indian cricket had traditionally lagged. Under his leadership, the team’s fast bowlers, such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma, emerged as match-winners, consistently troubling opposition batsmen on foreign pitches. The development of a strong pace battery allowed India to compete on even terms in places like Australia, South Africa, and England—conditions that had previously been challenging for Indian teams.
Ponting also pointed out that Kohli’s passion for Test cricket played a big role in motivating the team. Unlike many modern captains who prioritize limited-overs formats, Kohli has always been vocal about his love for the red-ball format. His dedication to Test cricket ensured that India continued to prioritize it, even as T20 leagues like the IPL grew in prominence. This focus on the longer format helped India stay competitive and raised the overall quality of Test cricket in the country.
Kohli’s 40 wins in 68 matches as captain place him among the most successful Test captains in history. His ability to inspire his teammates to adopt a more aggressive, fearless style of play was key to India’s transformation. Ponting noted how Kohli’s leadership made Indian players more confident, particularly in challenging away environments, such as the Gabba in Brisbane, where India secured a historic victory in 2021. The win at the Gabba was especially symbolic, as it ended Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue.
Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket extended beyond his captaincy, according to Ponting. His approach to preparation and high expectations set new standards within the team. The results speak for themselves—during Kohli’s tenure, India not only improved their win-loss record but also developed the resilience needed to bounce back from tough situations. Kohli left a legacy of aggressive, competitive cricket that continues to influence the team, even after stepping down as captain.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s praise for Virat Kohli reflects the profound impact that Kohli had on Indian cricket, particularly in Test matches. His ability to instill self-belief, develop fast-bowling depth, and focus on fitness helped India achieve unprecedented success overseas. As India prepares for future tours and challenges, Kohli’s contributions as a leader and player will remain a cornerstone of the team’s continued growth.