Virat Kohli delivered another masterclass in ODI batting on Sunday. He smashed a magnificent century against New Zealand in the third and final match of the series. This innings showcased why he remains the cornerstone of India's batting lineup.
Kohli Rescues India From Early Collapse
India faced a daunting chase of 338 runs. The team stumbled early, losing four wickets for just 71 runs. Kohli stepped up when his country needed him most. He anchored the innings with remarkable composure on a tricky pitch.
He reached his century with a single off Zak Foulkes on the final ball of the 40th over. His knock included eight boundaries and two sixes from just 91 deliveries. This was not just another hundred—it was a record-breaking performance.
Historic Milestones Achieved
Kohli's century marked his 54th in ODI cricket. More importantly, he surpassed Ricky Ponting to become the highest run-scorer batting at number three in ODI history. Kohli now has 12,662 runs in that position, eclipsing Ponting's 12,655.
He also set another remarkable record. Kohli now has the most ODI centuries against New Zealand. He has seven hundreds against them in just 36 innings. This puts him ahead of cricketing legends:
- Ricky Ponting - 6 centuries in 50 innings
- Virender Sehwag - 6 centuries in 23 innings
- Sachin Tendulkar - 5 centuries in 41 innings
- Sanath Jayasuriya - 5 centuries in 45 innings
The Context of Kohli's Achievement
This century held special significance for several reasons. It was Kohli's 85th international hundred across all formats. Specifically in ODIs, it was his 54th century and his 41st on Indian soil.
Kohli now has seven or more ODI centuries against five different opponents:
- Sri Lanka - 10 centuries
- West Indies - 9 centuries
- Australia - 8 centuries
- South Africa - 7 centuries
- New Zealand - 7 centuries
Building Partnerships Under Pressure
Kohli demonstrated exceptional game management throughout his innings. After missing out on a century in the series opener where he scored 93, he ensured there would be no repeat disappointment.
He first built an 88-run partnership with Nitish Kumar Reddy for the fifth wicket. Reddy contributed 53 valuable runs. This stand revived India's hopes after the early collapse.
Kohli then accelerated the scoring with Harshit Rana. Together they added 99 runs in just 69 balls. Rana played a fluent innings of 52 runs from 43 deliveries. Their partnership kept India in contention until the final stages.
A Valiant Effort Falls Short
Kohli eventually fell for 124 runs from 108 balls. His dismissal effectively ended India's chase. Until that moment, he had kept belief alive among Indian supporters.
While India lost the match, Kohli's innings stood as a testament to his enduring class. He reminded everyone of his ability to make impossible chases seem achievable. His performance highlighted why he remains one of cricket's greatest batsmen.
The match may not have ended in victory, but Kohli's century provided another chapter in his legendary career. He continues to rewrite record books while inspiring his team in challenging situations.
