Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun, who witnessed Virat Kohli’s prime across all formats, shared how Kohli transformed the mindset of the Indian team during the historic 2018-19 Australia tour while captaining the side. Kohli led India to become the first Asian team to win a Test series in Australia, showcasing his exceptional form with nine centuries against Australia, seven of which came on Australian soil—the most by any Indian batter there. Only Jack Hobbs has more Test centuries (nine) than Kohli among visiting batsmen in Australia. Kohli’s grit earned praise from Australian greats Nathan Lyon and Steve Smith, who called him the "most Australian" among Indian cricketers.

Kohli became India’s Test captain mid-tour during the 2014-15 series. Despite scoring four centuries, India lost 0-2, but Kohli was determined to rewrite history. After a loss at Perth despite his hundred, something clicked in Kohli. He shifted focus from personal form to leading India with an aggressive mindset, inspiring the team to believe in victory.

Arun described the lead-up to the 2018 Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as a “pivotal moment,” with Kohli’s leadership driving India to a crucial win, sealing the series. Bumrah’s nine wickets and strong batting from Kohli and Pujara helped clinch the historic victory.

Reflecting on Kohli’s retirement with 9,230 runs and 30 centuries in 123 Tests, Arun praised his deep respect for the format and said cricket will miss his commanding presence. He also revealed Kohli’s dislike for practice matches, preferring intense net sessions with challenging conditions that fueled his competitive spirit.