Virat Kohli, the modern-day cricketing maestro, etched his name in the record books during his 500th international game and the 100th Test match between West Indies and India. With an exuberant display of skill and determination, Kohli finally ended the long wait for his first away Test century since December 2018, and what a century it was! His 29th Test century put India in an imposing position of strength in the second Test in Port of Spain, captivating the cricketing world with his brilliance.
With a graceful stroke that pierced the field and raced past the cover-point for a majestic four, Virat Kohli etched his name in the annals of cricketing history, reaching his 29th Test century in a truly remarkable fashion. This achievement carries a multitude of unique distinctions, propelling the former captain to an unparalleled status among Indian cricketers.
While cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and MS Dhoni graced the field, representing the nation in more than 500 international matches, none of them accomplished the feat of a century in their 500th game, making Kohli’s achievement all the more special and exclusive. It speaks volumes about his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and the ability to rise to the occasion when it matters the most.
What adds another layer of brilliance to Kohli’s achievement is the fact that he achieved this remarkable milestone in a Test match. In an era where limited-overs cricket often takes the limelight, Kohli’s dedication and excellence in the longest format of the game have set him apart as a true master of Test cricket.
What a legendary milestone, what a remarkable knock! 🇮🇳 Congratulations, @imVkohli, on smashing a century in your 500th international match! Your dedication and brilliance on the field are truly unmatched. Here's to many more centuries and records in your illustrious career!… pic.twitter.com/zA4IhUssQI
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 21, 2023
As the only Indian cricketer to mark his 500th international game with a Test century, Kohli has transcended beyond the realm of statistics and numbers. He has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his feat will be etched in the memories of cricket fans for generations to come.
In the illustrious history of cricket, reaching the milestone of 500 international matches is a remarkable feat in itself. However, when it comes to making the 500th appearance even more extraordinary, Virat Kohli stands tall at the pinnacle. The Indian maestro set a scintillating record by amassing an impressive 100 runs in his 500th international match, achieving this extraordinary milestone during a captivating Test match in 2023.
Kumar Sangakkara, another cricketing legend, showcased his class and finesse during his 500th international match, an ODI in 2013, where he scored a commendable 48 runs, leaving the spectators spellbound with his elegant stroke play.
In the fast-paced world of One-Day Internationals, Ricky Ponting demonstrated his prowess in 2010 when he played his 500th international match, contributing a solid 44 runs to the scoreboard, exemplifying his value to the team even after such an illustrious career.
The dynamic MS Dhoni, known for his lightning-quick glove work and explosive batting, exhibited his mettle during a T20I match in 2018, where he scored an unbeaten 32 runs in his 500th international appearance, reaffirming his status as a match-winner and a true cricketing legend.
Among these cricketing giants, Virat Kohli’s century in his 500th international match shines like a radiant star, setting an unmatched benchmark for future cricketers. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver an exceptional performance in a Test match on such a momentous occasion is a testament to his greatness and unwavering passion for the sport.
In the realm of cricketing legends, a select group of players have reached the monumental milestone of participating in 500 or more international matches. Leading this elite pack is the iconic Sachin Tendulkar, whose remarkable career spanned an astounding 664 matches, a testament to his longevity and unwavering dedication to the game. Standing tall alongside him is the elegant Mahela Jayawardena, who showcased his brilliance in 652 matches, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Not far behind, the dynamic Kumar Sangakkara displayed his mastery in 594 matches, delighting fans with his exquisite stroke play and match-winning performances. Another Sri Lankan maestro, Sanath Jayasuriya, etched his name in cricketing history with a memorable 586-match career, captivating audiences with his explosive batting and versatile skills.
Australia’s cricketing legend Ricky Ponting, an epitome of consistency and excellence, featured in an impressive 560 matches, while the enigmatic MS Dhoni, known for his cool-headed captaincy and finishing prowess, made his mark in 538 matches.
The swashbuckling Shahid Afridi’s thrilling career spanned across 524 matches, showcasing his fearless approach and crowd-pleasing performances. South Africa’s dynamic all-rounder Jacques Kallis, with 519 matches to his name, redefined the role of a modern-day cricketer, excelling in all aspects of the game.
Rahul Dravid, the “Wall” of Indian cricket, left a lasting impact in his 509-match career, earning immense respect for his impeccable technique and unyielding resilience at the crease.
And finally, at the forefront of this esteemed group stands the ever-inspiring Virat Kohli, whose journey has now encompassed 500 matches and continues to march forward. As he adds to his already glittering legacy, cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly watch the next chapter unfold in the enthralling saga of his cricketing career.
Read More: Top 10 active players with the most international centuries
Virat Kohli’s Masterclass and Jadeja’s Brilliance: A Day of Resilience and Records in Port of Spain
As the sun rose on Day 2, West Indies opted for the second new ball, hoping to break the resilient partnership between Kohli and the sensational Ravindra Jadeja. But the duo proved to be an immovable force, displaying an incredible fifth-wicket stand worth 159 runs. Jadeja, in his characteristic style, punched and flicked with finesse, collecting runs at will, much to the dismay of the West Indies bowlers.
Kohli, on the other hand, seemed to transcend into a realm of his own, producing an array of delightful strokes. He elegantly drove the ball straight down the ground, showcasing his prowess with the bat. His composure was unmatched, and as he crossed the 90s, the anticipation for his century reached a fever pitch. The crowd was electrified with every run he scored, and when he finally brought up his 76th international hundred with a splendid square drive, the stadium erupted in a wave of exultation.
This monumental century was not just a personal milestone for Kohli; it came with several accolades that solidified his position among cricket’s elite. He surpassed the legendary Brian Lara’s tally of Test tons at No. 4, leaving behind a legacy that would be talked about for generations. Additionally, Kohli’s century was his 12th against the West Indies, equaling the mighty Jacques Kallis and closing in on the leader of this elite group, Sunil Gavaskar.
Jadeja, too, was in prime form, displaying his all-around brilliance and confidently reaching his well-deserved half-century. The duo’s partnership was a sight to behold, as they defied all the challenges thrown their way.
However, as is the nature of cricket, the game can change in a matter of seconds. A direct hit from Alzarri Joseph brought an end to Kohli’s sublime innings, leaving the Indian fans in awe of his brilliance and yet yearning for more. But the action didn’t stop there, as young Ishan Kishan stepped onto the crease with an attacking mindset, impressively taking on the West Indies bowlers, and announcing his arrival with a couple of boundaries.
Jadeja’s gallant innings came to an end, as he edged a delivery from the fiery Kemar Roach to the wicketkeeper, courtesy of a successful DRS appeal by West Indies. But the show went on, and Kishan continued to thrill the audience with his fearless approach.
With the match delicately poised at Lunch, the seventh-wicket pair of Kishan and R Ashwin stood undefeated, ready to add further fireworks to this enthralling encounter.
A thrilling Day 2 of the second Test in Port of Spain showcased the dominance of India as they posted a formidable total of 438 runs, led by a magnificent 159-run partnership between the dynamic duo of Virat Kohli (121) and Ravindra Jadeja (61). However, it was R Ashwin’s blazing knock of 56 that added the perfect finishing touch to India’s innings.
The afternoon session saw a spirited effort from West Indies, trying to tame India’s lower order and limit the damage. Ashwin, with his characteristic elegance, unleashed a flurry of boundaries, showcasing his prowess with an exquisite off drive and a fine guide past point, putting the West Indies bowlers on the back foot. The young Ishan Kishan, too, had his share of fortune as he managed to survive a close call, but fate had other plans for him as he fell to a brilliant catch by the wicketkeeper on the very next ball.
Amidst the intriguing battle, Ashwin’s brilliance shone through as he used his cricketing acumen to challenge a leg-before decision and successfully overturn it with the help of the Decision Review System (DRS). With composure and finesse, he maneuvered the spinner Jomel Warrican to collect crucial runs, steering India past the formidable 400-run mark.
However, West Indies fought back valiantly, dismissing the tailenders and halting the tail from wagging too long. Alzarri Joseph’s short-ball tactics were skillfully handled by Ashwin and Jaydev Unadkat, who displayed grit and resilience, forming a steady partnership. Despite a fiery delivery striking Unadkat on his arm, the duo stood tall, pushing India’s score forward.
As the excitement mounted, Warrican managed to deceive Unadkat, stumping him with a clever delivery after a missed slog sweep. Yet, Ashwin continued to dazzle the crowd with his crafty batting, guiding a Roach delivery over slip for his fifth boundary, inching closer to his fifty.
The match, however, witnessed a twist when Mohammed Siraj fell prey to Warrican’s cunning delivery, as West Indies successfully utilized the review this time. The game of cricket, as always, showed its unpredictability, keeping fans at the edge of their seats throughout the enthralling day.
With the day’s play drawing to a close, the scoreboard read 438, a testament to India’s batting prowess and a daunting challenge ahead for the West Indies.
Who has scored the most runs for India in Tests?
Sachin Tendulkar with 15921 runs.
Also Read: Magnificent Virat Kohli Net Worth in Indian Rupees, Age, Height, and Family in 2023 (Updated)
