Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has publicly praised Virat Kohli for his magnificent 84th international century, a knock that proved pivotal in India's recent victory. Kohli's masterclass came during the Asia Cup 2024 Super Four match against Afghanistan, showcasing his enduring class and match-winning abilities.
Pathan's Analysis of a Masterful Innings
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Irfan Pathan did not hold back in his admiration for the batting maestro. He highlighted the significance of Kohli's innings in the context of the game, emphasizing how it steered India to a formidable total. Pathan pointed out that Kohli's century was not just about accumulating runs but was a calculated effort built on superb timing, intelligent running between the wickets, and a deep understanding of the match situation.
The century against Afghanistan marked Virat Kohli's 84th hundred in international cricket across all formats. This staggering number further cements his position as one of the most prolific run-scorers in the history of the game. Pathan's commentary focused on the technical excellence and mental fortitude Kohli displayed, especially after India lost early wickets. He built his innings with patience before unleashing a flurry of boundaries in the latter stages.
The Context: Asia Cup 2024 Super Four Clash
The innings unfolded at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on September 6, 2024. Batting first, India found themselves in a spot of bother early on. It was here that Virat Kohli took charge, forming crucial partnerships to stabilize and then accelerate the innings. His knock was laced with classic drives, powerful pulls, and his trademark fitness on display with quick singles and doubles.
Kohli's century was instrumental in propelling India to a challenging total, which ultimately proved too much for the Afghan side. The victory in this Super Four match was crucial for India's campaign in the tournament, strengthening their position for a place in the final. Pathan noted that such innings under pressure are what separate great players from the good ones.
A Legacy of Consistency and Big-Match Temperament
Irfan Pathan's praise extends beyond this single innings. He contextualized this century within Kohli's incredible career resurgence over the past couple of years. After a brief period where questions were raised about his form, Kohli has silenced all critics with a torrent of runs across formats. This century adds another chapter to his legacy of performing when the team needs him the most.
Pathan, himself a World Cup winner and a keen observer of the game, emphasized that Kohli's hunger for runs and his ability to adapt his game to different conditions and formats remain unmatched. The 84th international ton places him just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar in the all-time list, keeping the dream of that record alive. Fans and pundits alike are now watching keenly as Kohli continues to chase history.
In conclusion, Irfan Pathan's laudatory words for Virat Kohli reflect the sentiments of the cricketing world. The century was a reminder of his genius and a testament to his rigorous work ethic and unwavering passion for the game. As the Asia Cup 2024 progresses and the T20 World Cup looms, this innings serves as a timely warning to all opposition about the form and intent of one of modern cricket's greatest batters.
