Virat Kohli, a name synonymous with modern cricket excellence, has built a career that boasts consistency, aggression, and an unyielding passion for the game. Over the years, Kohli has played numerous match-winning innings that have etched his name into the annals of cricket history. This article looks at ten unforgettable matches that have cemented Virat Kohli's legacy as a cricket legend.
- India vs. Sri Lanka, Hobart, 2012
This match is often cited as the one where Kohli announced himself on the world stage. India needed to chase down 321 runs in 40 overs to stay alive in the tri-series. Kohli’s unbeaten 133 off just 86 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression. His stunning attack on Lasith Malinga, where he scored 24 runs in an over, is still talked about today. Kohli’s innings ensured India chased down the target in just 36.4 overs, keeping them in the series and making him an overnight sensation.
- India vs. Pakistan, T20 World Cup, 2022
The stakes couldn't have been higher—India vs. Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, a match where Kohli’s heroics made history. Chasing 160, India was struggling at 31/4 when Kohli took charge. His unbeaten 82 off 53 balls, including 6 boundaries and 4 sixes, guided India to an improbable victory. The six that Kohli hit off Haris Rauf in the 19th over is considered one of the most iconic moments in T20 cricket. This match reinforced Kohli’s reputation as a master chaser and a player who thrives under pressure.
- India vs. Australia, Adelaide, 2014
Kohli’s love affair with Adelaide began in 2014 when he scored twin centuries in a Test match as captain of India. The match, remembered for its competitiveness, saw Kohli lead from the front with scores of 115 and 141. His second innings, in particular, was a display of sheer determination as India chased 364 to win. Although India fell short, Kohli’s 141 off 175 balls stood out for its bravery and nearly took India to an incredible victory. This match marked the beginning of Kohli’s dominance as a Test cricketer.
- India vs. South Africa, Mumbai, 2015
During the 2015 ODI series against South Africa, Kohli played one of his finest innings. Batting first, South Africa had posted a massive 438 runs on the board. Kohli’s 138 off 140 balls was a valiant effort in the chase. Though India fell short by 214 runs, Kohli’s knock was the highlight of India’s innings. His ability to fight back even when the odds were against him showcased his resilience and skill.
- India vs. Australia, Mohali, T20 World Cup, 2016
In a must-win game during the T20 World Cup, Kohli produced one of the most memorable performances of his career. Chasing 161 to reach the semi-finals, India was in a tight spot when Kohli walked in. His unbeaten 82 off 51 balls, filled with finesse and controlled aggression, led India to victory with five balls to spare. Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in pacing a chase, and his running between the wickets was as crucial as the boundaries he struck. This match further solidified his reputation as the king of chases.
- India vs. New Zealand, Wellington, 2014
On India’s tour of New Zealand in 2014, Kohli played one of his best Test innings in Wellington. Facing a tough New Zealand bowling attack in challenging conditions, Kohli scored a fluent 105, which was instrumental in India saving the Test match. His technique and temperament in difficult situations were on full display, and this innings was key in establishing him as a dependable batsman in all conditions.
- India vs. Australia, Melbourne, 2018
During the 2018 Border-Gavaskar series, Kohli played a crucial knock in Melbourne that helped India secure a historic series win in Australia. His 82 in the first innings was a gritty effort on a difficult pitch. While this wasn’t his highest score, it was a captain’s knock that set the tone for India’s dominance in the series. This match was pivotal in India’s first-ever Test series win in Australia, with Kohli’s contribution being central to the team’s success.
- India vs. West Indies, Jamaica, 2019
In the 2019 Test series against West Indies, Kohli scored an unbeaten 200, his highest Test score away from home. This double century came at a time when India needed a big score to put the game beyond the West Indies. Kohli’s innings was a mix of patience and aggression, demonstrating his ability to play long innings. This knock was also significant as it showcased his hunger for runs even after a decade in international cricket.
- India vs. Australia, Pune, 2017
Kohli’s 85 in the Pune Test during the 2017 Border-Gavaskar series was another example of his prowess in challenging conditions. On a pitch where most batsmen struggled, Kohli’s innings was an exhibition of skill and temperament. Though India lost the match, Kohli’s knock was one of the few bright spots in a tough game for the Indian team. This innings is remembered for its grit and the fight Kohli showed against a world-class Australian attack.
- India vs. England, Lord’s, 2018
In the second Test of India’s 2018 tour of England, Kohli scored 149 in the first innings, single-handedly keeping India in the game. The conditions were tough, with the ball moving around significantly, but Kohli’s technique and concentration were impeccable. Though India lost the match, Kohli’s innings was widely praised as one of the best by an Indian at Lord’s. It was a defining moment that established him as one of the best batsmen of his generation.
