Nov 26, (V7N) - Virat Kohli returned to form in emphatic style with a century in India's dominant 295-run victory against Australia in the series opener in Perth. Stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah praised Kohli's crucial contribution and resilience, emphasizing the veteran's irreplaceable value to the team.

Kohli, 36, faced criticism leading up to the Test after scoring just 192 runs across his previous 10 innings, averaging 15.50 in India's recent 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand. His struggles continued in Perth, where he was dismissed for five in India's first innings as the team was bowled out for 150. However, Kohli bounced back with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings, steering India to a commanding position.

Bumrah, captaining in place of Rohit Sharma, who is on paternity leave, highlighted Kohli's immense experience, particularly in Australian conditions. "This is his fourth or fifth tour of Australia. He knows his cricket better than anyone else," said Bumrah. "When you have such a long career, playing in tough scenarios, it's difficult to perform at that level all the time, but he has shown time and again how to bounce back."

Kohli's ton was his seventh Test century in Australia, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record among Indian batsmen. He now trails only Jack Hobbs (9 centuries) for the most Test tons by visiting players in Australia.

Bumrah also noted the confidence Kohli brings to the team. "His confidence after the first-innings dismissal lifted everyone. When he gets going early in a series, it boosts the entire squad."

India leads the five-match series 1-0, with the second Test set to begin in Adelaide on Dec. 6.

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