TThere can be few more exciting sights here in cricket than watching Indian maestro Virat Kohli bat at his best and have the fans, especially in his homeland, on their feet whenever he does.
He has reached a stage that others can only dream of. He is the best modern-day batsman in all formats of the game.
He is breaking records with every series and setting new trends in classical batting. He is always ready to perform against any opponent and anywhere in the world.
After the retirement of Sachin Tendulkar, it was believed that the transformation of the Little Master would take a long time. But Kohli filled that spot very quickly and effectively.
Statistically, Kohli is ahead of the Little Master. In recent times, India have won most of their matches, especially ODIs and T20Is, due to their solid and tall batting line-up, with Kohli as the backbone.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly rates Kohli better than Sachin when it comes to chasing the target.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar once said, “To be a good player you need talent, but to be a great player you need attitude like Virat Kohli.”
One of the most celebrated players in modern cricket, Kohli has achieved a monumental milestone in his illustrious career. The Indian cricketer has recently joined the elite club of players who have scored 100 centuries in professional cricket. He scored 37 first-class centuries, 54 in List A and nine centuries in T20s.
As Kohli continues to play and break new records, the cricketing world is eagerly waiting to see what he can do. How far can you go? His 100th century is not just a number. It is the epitome of passion, tenacity and perfection, which makes Kohli a true cricketing legend.
During the first Test against Australia in Perth, Kohli scored his 30th Test century – his 81st in international cricket, breaking a 16-month drought with a return to form.
It was Kohli’s seventh Test century in Australia, and his ninth against them in the format.
The century took him past Australian great Don Bradman’s tally of 29 Test centuries, bringing him level with Matthew Hayden and Shivnarine Chandrapal. Only fourteen players have scored more Test centuries, and among active batsmen this is led only by Steve Smith and Kane Williamson.
Kohli also surpassed Jack Hobbs for the most international centuries in Australia. He now has ten centuries in the country. Hobbs had nine.
He achieved this feat in a tense and challenging match, where the innings he produced was a beacon of hope for his team.
Kohli’s 100th century comes after a long wait, having not scored a century since 2019. The feat puts him in an elite group of cricketers who have crossed the 100-century mark in international cricket, joining the ranks of greats like Sachin Tendulkar. Ricky Ponting.
Kohli has scored 50 centuries in 295 ODIs at an average of 58.18. His overall ODI average in 289 matches is 58.48, but his average goes up to 65.49 in chases and 90.40 in successful chases.
Kohli’s ability to adapt his game and succeed in all formats of the game – Test cricket, One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20s – sets him apart. His first century came in 2008 against Sri Lanka in an ODI. His batting averages are among the highest in ODIs and Tests, and his aggressive yet calculated approach to batting has made him a role model for aspiring cricketers around the world.
The success of the 100th century is reflected not only because it is a rare feat but also because of its longevity. Kohli has been in the international cricket scene for over a decade and a half.
Kohli’s batting technique is something to watch. His impeccable balance, precise footwork, and ability to adapt to different playing situations is unparalleled. His wide range of shots and ability to play both pace and spin with equal measure make him a complete batsman. Kohli’s ability to tailor his innings to the team’s needs and pace his innings is a testament to his skill and cricketing intelligence.
Kohli’s commitment to fitness and his unparalleled work ethic have set new standards for cricketers around the world. He is often called one of the best cricketers in the world. His dedication to physical conditioning and maintaining peak fitness levels has not only enhanced his own performance but also influenced the fitness culture of the Indian cricket team.
One of Kohli’s distinguishing qualities is his adaptability. He has successfully adapted his game to different formats and playing conditions. Whether it’s navigating challenging English conditions or dominating spin-friendly subcontinental wickets, Kohli’s versatility is a key factor in his world-class status.
Mental toughness is an important aspect of cricket, and Kohli has it in abundance. He thrives under pressure and often steps up when the team needs him the most. His ability to maintain focus and composure in high-pressure situations has brought India numerous victories.
Kohli’s list of records and achievements is nothing short of astounding. He holds many records including the fastest to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000 and 11,000 runs in ODIs. He is the fastest player to score 70 international centuries.
Kohli’s journey from a young cricket enthusiast to a global cricket icon is a testament to his dedication, passion and relentless pursuit of excellence. His legacy in the world of cricket is already assured, and he continues to inspire generations of cricketers with his prodigious talent and unwavering determination.
In every game he plays, Kohli excels and sets an example for aspiring cricketers around the world. If Kohli stays fit and plays for 4-5 more years, he can set many more batting records which may be difficult to break for a long time.
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