In the annals of cricket, where legends are often forged through moments of sheer brilliance, Virat Kohli added two more chapters to his illustrious career in 2024. These innings not only demonstrated his mastery over the game but also highlighted his ability to perform when it mattered the most. Here, we delve into what are arguably the two best innings Virat Kohli played in 2024.
T20 World Cup 2024 Final – 76 Runs Off 59 Balls
The T20 World Cup Final in 2024 was a stage set for Virat Kohli to prove his mettle once again. Facing South Africa, with the pressure of ending India’s long drought in ICC tournaments, Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in resilience and strategic gameplay. Starting his innings when India was in a precarious position at 34/3, Kohli’s role was clear – anchor the innings and then accelerate. His 76 runs off 59 balls were not just about the numbers but the context in which they were scored.
Kohli began cautiously, understanding the need to rebuild the innings after early setbacks. His first 30 runs came off 30 balls, a testament to his patience and understanding of the game’s demands. However, as the innings progressed, Kohli shifted gears, showcasing his ability to adapt. He smashed six fours and two sixes, accelerating in the latter part of his innings to propel India to a competitive total of 176/7. His innings was pivotal in setting up a defendable score, eventually leading India to victory by 7 runs. This performance not only earned him the Player of the Match but also drew curtains on his T20I career with a moment of glory.
IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth – 100 Runs and His 81st Century*
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has always been a battleground where Virat Kohli has thrived, and the 2024 series opener in Perth was no different. Facing Australia on their home turf, where the bounce and pace can test even the best, Kohli’s unbeaten 100 was a testament to his class and determination.
What made this innings special was not just the century but the context – it was his 81st in international cricket, bringing him closer to cricketing immortality. Kohli’s knock was a blend of aggression and composure, starting at a time when India was looking to establish a lead after a modest first innings total. His century came off 143 balls, with 8 fours and 2 sixes, showing that even in Test cricket, his ability to control the tempo of the game remains unmatched.
This innings was crucial as India set a daunting target after declaring at 487/6. The pitch in Perth, known for its challenges, became Kohli’s canvas as he painted a picture of resilience, scoring his runs against a world-class Australian bowling attack. His performance not only steadied the ship for India but also demoralized the Australian team, leading to a significant lead and eventually a commanding victory in the match.
The Legacy of Leadership and Performance
Virat Kohli’s performances in these two innings of 2024 are not just about runs scored but the narrative they weave into his career. In the T20 World Cup final, Kohli delivered when the team was against the wall, showing why he’s regarded as one of the best finishers in the game. His century in Perth added another layer to his legacy, proving that even in the longest format, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
These innings reflect Kohli’s evolution as a cricketer, where his early aggression has been complemented by a seasoned understanding of the game’s nuances. His ability to adapt to different formats and conditions, to lead from the front, and to perform under pressure are what make these innings stand out.
Looking Forward
Virat Kohli’s innings in the 2024 T20 World Cup final and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth are not just highlights of his year but moments that will be remembered for years to come. They encapsulate the essence of what makes Kohli one of the greatest cricketers of all time – his ability to rise to the occasion, his technical prowess, and his unyielding spirit. As we look back on 2024, these performances will be etched in cricket’s history, further cementing Virat Kohli’s status as a cricketing legend.
