Virat Kohli, the maestro of modern Indian cricket, has etched his name in the annals of the sport’s history. As one of the most experienced and accomplished players, his contribution to the Indian cricket team has been immeasurable. With 78 centuries to his name across formats, Kohli has been the bedrock of India’s batting lineup. However, his journey is also marked by the tantalising near-centuries, where he ventured into the 90s but fell just short of the coveted three-digit mark.
The Near-Century Syndrome
Throughout his career spanning 512 international matches, Kohli’s unwavering consistency has allowed him to reach the brink of a century multiple times. These near-centuries, while a testament to his impeccable skills, also underline the fleeting nature of cricketing milestones. Kohli has encountered this scenario on eight occasions, with six in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and two in Test cricket.
The current ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has been a stage for Kohli to showcase his prowess once again. Leading a formidable Indian team under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, they ventured into a match against New Zealand with a shadow of doubt looming over their previous encounters. India had not triumphed over New Zealand in the ODI World Cup since 2003. This historical backdrop added an element of nervousness as both teams faced off in the 21st game of the 2023 World Cup.
The Clash of Titans
New Zealand started by batting first, hoping to set a challenging target. The innings saw commendable performances from Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, who propelled New Zealand to a total of 273 runs. Notably, Mohammed Shami emerged as India’s highest wicket-taker in the first innings, clinching five crucial wickets.
In the pursuit of this target, India’s star batter Virat Kohli once again showcased his exceptional skills. Scoring a remarkable 95 runs from 104 deliveries, Kohli took center stage and propelled India to victory. His knock not only shattered New Zealand’s World Cup dominance over India but also reinforced his legacy as one of the finest batters in contemporary cricket.
A Lasting Legacy
As Virat Kohli continues his extraordinary journey in international cricket, these near-centuries only add depth to his illustrious legacy. While he might have missed a few centuries in the 90s, his overall contribution to Indian cricket is beyond compare. Kohli remains a symbol of excellence, consistency, and a driving force for the national team. His recent performance in the World Cup exemplifies his enduring impact and unyielding commitment to success.
As India marches forward in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Virat Kohli’s near-centuries serve as a poignant reminder of his dedication and his relentless pursuit of cricketing excellence.
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