Virat Kohli, one of the most prolific and influential cricketers of the modern era, has carved out a legacy with his extraordinary batting prowess and leadership skills. His consistency, passion, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a legend in the cricketing world. Here, we delve into ten of Virat Kohli’s most iconic performances in international cricket that have defined his illustrious career.
- 133* vs Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Bank Series, 2012)
In the 2012 Commonwealth Bank Series, Virat Kohli played one of the finest innings of his career against Sri Lanka in Hobart. Chasing a daunting target of 321 in just 40 overs to stay alive in the series, Kohli unleashed an onslaught on the Sri Lankan bowlers. His unbeaten 133 off 86 balls, including 16 fours and 2 sixes, propelled India to victory with more than 13 overs to spare. Kohli’s aggressive stroke play and calculated risk-taking exemplified his ability to chase down big totals. - 183 vs Pakistan (Asia Cup, 2012)
Virat Kohli’s 183 against Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup remains one of his most memorable innings. Chasing a stiff target of 330, Kohli anchored the Indian innings with a magnificent display of batting. His 183 off 148 balls, laced with 22 fours and 1 six, is still the highest individual score in Asia Cup history. This innings not only showcased his technical prowess but also his ability to handle high-pressure situations against arch-rivals. - 82* vs Australia (ICC T20 World Cup, 2016)
In the ICC T20 World Cup 2016, Kohli’s unbeaten 82 off 51 balls against Australia in Mohali was a masterclass in T20 batting. Chasing 161 for a place in the semifinals, India was in a precarious position before Kohli took control. His innings, marked by impeccable timing and placement, guided India to victory with five balls to spare. This knock is often hailed as one of the greatest in T20 history due to the high stakes and the quality of the opposition. - 235 vs England (Mumbai Test, 2016)
Kohli’s double century against England in the Mumbai Test of 2016 was a testament to his adaptability and endurance in the longer format of the game. His 235 off 340 balls, comprising 25 fours and 1 six, was instrumental in India posting a mammoth total. This innings highlighted Kohli’s ability to play long innings and his mastery over spin and pace alike. It was a captain’s knock that led India to a series-winning victory. - 141 vs Australia (Adelaide Test, 2014)
In the first Test of the 2014 series against Australia at Adelaide, Kohli, leading India for the first time in Tests, scored a scintillating 141 in the second innings. Chasing 364 for victory, Kohli’s aggressive yet controlled innings gave India a fighting chance. Despite the team falling short, Kohli’s century was praised for its bravery and technical excellence on a challenging pitch against a formidable Australian attack. - 149 vs England (Edgbaston Test, 2018)
Kohli’s 149 in the first Test of the 2018 series against England at Edgbaston is considered one of his finest Test innings. Facing a potent English bowling attack in challenging conditions, Kohli’s knock was a blend of grit and skill. His ability to counter the swinging ball and his partnerships with the lower order ensured that India stayed in the contest. This innings silenced critics who doubted his ability to perform in English conditions. - 122 vs England (Pune ODI, 2017)
In the first ODI of the 2017 series against England in Pune, Kohli scored a majestic 122 off 105 balls, leading India to a successful chase of 351. Alongside Kedar Jadhav, Kohli constructed the innings brilliantly, pacing his knock to perfection. His aggressive approach in the middle overs and ability to finish games were on full display, reaffirming his status as a master chaser in limited-overs cricket. - 96 vs South Africa (Durban Test, 2013)
In the first Test of the 2013 series against South Africa in Durban, Kohli scored a crucial 96 in the second innings on a difficult pitch. His innings was marked by technical proficiency and resilience against a fierce South African pace attack. Despite missing out on a century, Kohli’s knock was pivotal in setting a competitive target for South Africa, showcasing his determination and grit in testing conditions. - 123 vs New Zealand (Napier ODI, 2014)
Kohli’s 123 off 111 balls against New Zealand in Napier in 2014 was another example of his chasing prowess. Faced with a target of 293, Kohli anchored the innings, guiding India to a comfortable six-wicket victory. His ability to rotate the strike, find boundaries at will, and handle pressure was evident throughout the innings, reinforcing his reputation as one of the best ODI batsmen in the world. - 254* vs South Africa (Pune Test, 2019)
Kohli’s unbeaten 254 against South Africa in the Pune Test of 2019 was a masterclass in Test match batting. His double century, which included 33 fours and 2 sixes, came at a crucial time and helped India post a massive total. This innings showcased Kohli’s ability to dominate bowlers across sessions and formats, emphasizing his fitness and mental strength. It was also a landmark innings, as it marked his highest score in Test cricket.
Virat Kohli‘s career is adorned with numerous iconic performances that have cemented his place among cricketing greats. His ability to adapt across formats, perform under pressure, and consistently score runs makes him a special talent in the world of cricket. Each of these performances not only highlights his individual brilliance but also his contribution to the team’s success, underlining his legacy as one of the finest cricketers of all time. As Kohli continues to play, fans and analysts alike eagerly await more such memorable moments that will add to his already illustrious career.
