When Virat said, ‘I get a good feel coming to Visakhapatnam, it is similar to Adelaide

Visakhapatnam's historic cricketing moments with Kohli's brilliance and Rohit's emergence as a Test opener in two memorable matches.

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.