PAK vs IND: In the annals of cricket history, Virat Kohli stands as a modern legend, consistently pushing the boundaries of excellence. On a memorable day during the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four match between India and Pakistan, Kohli achieved a milestone that further solidified his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. In this article, we delve deep into his remarkable journey and the records he shattered on that memorable day.
Virat Kohli’s record-breaking journey to 13,000 ODI runs began on a sunny Monday. Resuming his innings from the overnight position on the reserve day, he displayed his prowess with the bat. It took him just 55 balls to reach his half-century and a mere 29 more to achieve his 47th ODI century, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 13000 runs.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Kohli accomplished it in his 267th innings, a stunning 54 innings fewer than Tendulkar’s 321. This remarkable feat reignites the age-old debate of Virat vs. Sachin, with Kohli’s extraordinary consistency and hunger for runs standing out.
Virat Kohli’s 47th ODI century is not just another statistical achievement; it’s a testament to his unmatched skill and dedication to the game. With this century, he now stands just two short of equaling Tendulkar’s record for the most ODI centuries and three away from eclipsing the legend to reach 50 one-day tons. It’s a magnanimous feat that cements Kohli’s legacy as a cricketing icon.
In the Asia Cup 2023 match against Pakistan, Kohli’s partnership with KL Rahul was nothing short of spectacular. Together, they added an unbeaten 233 runs for the third wicket, a record-breaking partnership in Asia Cup history for any wicket. The duo’s synergy on the field was evident as they tore apart the opposition’s bowling attack.
Kohli’s extraordinary performance against Pakistan allowed India to post a mammoth total of 356/2. KL Rahul also played a pivotal role, notching up his century and contributing significantly to the partnership. This match showcased Kohli’s dominance over Pakistan and his ability to perform under pressure.
PAK vs IND: Wasim Jaffer Reacts To Virat Kohli’s Century
Before the match, Kohli needed 98 runs to reach the 13,000-run milestone. Rain had played spoilsport on the previous day, preventing any further play after 24.1 overs. India had managed to put up 147/2 before the interruption. However, on the day of Kohli’s record-breaking innings, the batting surface was a belter, and he capitalized on the opportunity.
Kohli’s approach to the game was a display of strategic brilliance. He began cautiously, as did his partner KL Rahul, recognizing that Pakistan was a bowler short with Haris Rauf unable to continue due to injury. When Iftikhar Ahmed came to bowl his off-breaks, the shackles were broken, and Rahul initiated an onslaught that led to a fabulous century partnership.
As Rahul maintained his aggressive stance, Kohli focused on finding his timing against Shaheen Afridi’s pace. Though he struggled initially to find gaps, his determination and skill prevailed. He erupted with a flurry of boundaries as Rahul slowed down, reaching his seventies with a six and a four off Iftikhar’s last over. It was his seventh boundary-hitting stroke, showcasing his ability to adapt to changing game situations.
Throughout his innings, Kohli kept a watchful eye on the sky, knowing that rain could disrupt the match. India needed to set a formidable target in case the match came down to the DLS method. He and Rahul ensured that India scored at a brisk pace, consistently maintaining a run rate of over six runs an over.
Kohli’s century wasn’t without its challenges. His first boundary wasn’t convincing, as he edged Naseem Shah behind the wicketkeeper. Pakistan even used their second review against him, but it was as if Kohli was determined to make them pay for their desperation.
Faheem Ashraf posed a challenge for Kohli initially, but he overcame it with three boundaries, showcasing his ability to adapt and conquer different bowlers. As Rahul approached his century, Kohli’s urgency to reach his hundred was evident. A couple took him to 99, and the next ball brought forth a vintage Kohli celebration.
Kohli’s innings culminated with back-to-back boundaries and a six off the final three deliveries. This magnificent batting performance by India not only solidified their dominance in the match but also saw them register their highest ODI total against Pakistan.
Wasim Jaffer’s tweet, featuring an image of Donald Trump with the caption “Move slowly, carefully, and strike like the fastest animal on the planet,” aptly summarized Kohli’s classic innings. The cricketing world celebrated Kohli’s achievement, acknowledging his relentless pursuit of excellence.
That's Virat Kohli for you. Another classic Kohli inns 👏🏽 #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/74ryLFQReD
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) September 11, 2023
Virat Kohli’s record-breaking innings during the Asia Cup 2023 Super Four match will be etched in cricket history. His remarkable journey to 13,000 ODI runs, the century milestone, and his partnership with KL Rahul showcased his unwavering commitment to the game. Kohli’s ability to adapt, strategize, and perform under pressure cements his legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
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