Virat Kohli, often hailed as one of cricket’s modern greats, etched his name into the annals of cricket history with a performance that was as much about personal redemption as it was about showcasing his indomitable spirit. His last Test century, scored in Ahmedabad against Australia, was not just another milestone but a pivotal moment that ended a prolonged wait, reviving discussions on his form and legacy.
The backdrop to this century was set in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2023. Virat Kohli, known for his aggressive batting and leadership, had been under scrutiny for not scoring a Test century since November 2019. This period, marked by intense scrutiny and personal challenges, made his return to form in Ahmedabad all the more dramatic.
The match itself was crucial, with India needing a win to secure their spot in the World Test Championship final. Kohli walked in at a time when the scoreboard read 187-2, a rare scenario where he had a substantial platform to build on, unlike many of his previous innings where he had to anchor the innings from the start. This context added layers to his performance; it wasn’t just about scoring runs but about how he scored them.
Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in concentration and technique. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, he played with a blend of caution and flair, showcasing why he’s considered one of the best. His century came off Nathan Lyon’s bowling, a moment that was celebrated not just by Kohli but by fans worldwide. The relief and joy were palpable as he acknowledged the crowd, his teammates, and perhaps, an unseen force above, symbolizing the end of a personal drought.
This century wasn’t just about numbers; it was about Kohli’s resilience. The wait for this century had been over 1,200 days, a period during which Kohli faced criticism, self-doubt, and the pressure of expectations. His return to form was a narrative of perseverance, proving that even the best go through phases but come back stronger. This innings in Ahmedabad was Kohli’s way of reminding the cricketing world of his class and mental fortitude.
The Narendra Modi Stadium, where Kohli scored this century, is one of the largest cricket stadiums globally, providing a grand stage for such a comeback. The atmosphere was electric, with fans and commentators alike waiting for Kohli to reach his century. When he did, the stadium erupted, not just in celebration but in relief. Kohli, known for his emotional displays, was visibly moved, acknowledging the crowd, his teammates, and perhaps, his own journey of resilience.
Following this Test, Kohli continued to make headlines. He equaled Sir Donald Bradman’s record of 29 Test centuries by scoring another ton against West Indies in July 2023 at Port of Spain. This overseas century was particularly sweet, as it was his first outside India since 2018, showcasing his adaptability and skill across different conditions.
Kohli’s journey back to form after his last Test century in Ahmedabad was not just about cricketing statistics. It was a narrative of mental fortitude, technical adjustments, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His return to scoring centuries across formats, including ODIs and T20Is, highlighted his versatility and his status as one of the most complete batsmen of his generation.
In reflecting on where Virat Kohli scored his last Test century, one must also consider the broader context of his career. Each century, especially those after a drought, adds layers to his legacy, not just as a scorer of runs but as a figure who embodies the spirit of cricket – resilience, passion, and an unyielding pursuit of perfection. Kohli’s innings in Ahmedabad will be remembered not only for the century but for what it represented: a comeback, a reaffirmation, and a continuation of a legendary career in cricket.
