The 5 Most Spectacular Knocks By Virat Kohli in IPL
Virat Kohli, undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of the modern era, has set a benchmark that many generations will strive to achieve. He's revered as an icon and an IPL legend, showcasing batting prowess in the IPL arena since its beginning. He boasts an impressive track record, having played 237 matches and batted 229 times.
Kohli, showcasing undeniable prowess as a batsman, has accumulated 7263 runs at an average of 37.24 and a strike rate of 130.02. His consistency and ability to anchor his team are underscored by his highest score of 113 and a remarkable tally of 7 centuries and 50 half-centuries. Despite the absence of an 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' moment for the RCB fans in the IPL, Kohli has provided moments of joy by amassing many runs in the distinctive RCB colours. Over the years, Kohli has stood as the solitary standard-bearer of excellence for RCB.
In 2016, Kohli achieved his best season in the IPL, setting a record for the most runs scored by an individual. He amassed 973 runs at an exceptional average of 81.08 and a strike rate of 152.03, including four centuries and seven fifties. This season, he witnessed Kohli breaking his IPL century drought and shattering numerous records. With that said, let's recall the top five highest scores that Kohli recorded in the IPL.
1. 113 vs Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab, 2016)
In the 2016 edition of the tournament, Kohli displayed extraordinary batting prowess by scoring his best in the IPL, a remarkable 113 against the Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab). This inning marked his fourth century of the season, and alongside Universe Boss Chris Gayle, Kohli unleashed sheer devastation in front of their fervent supporters.
However, it wasn't a walk in the park before the must-win clash against the Kings in Bengaluru. The RCB skipper had suffered an injury in the preceding match, entering the contest with stitches on his left hand. Rain further complicated matters, reducing the game to a 15-over affair, and the Kings tasked the hosts with batting first.
Kohli's innings, which included 12 boundaries and eight maximums, saw the first wicket falling only after ten overs when the score reached 147. Kohli and Gayle approached the game with unbridled aggression despite the rain-induced interruptions. RCB, during their allotted 15 overs, amassed 211 runs for the loss of just three wickets.
The Kings found the total insurmountable, significantly boosting RCB's net run rate and securing their position in the top two. Kohli's ability to overcome a finger injury and deliver his best IPL performance speaks volumes about his resilience, determination, and, of course, his cricketing class.
2. 109 vs Gujarat Lions (2016)
Kohli's first century against the Gujarat Lions couldn't secure a victory for his team. However, he and his close friend AB de Villiers joined forces to dismantle the Rajkot-based franchise in Bengaluru.
Choosing to bat first, Kohli opened the innings for RCB alongside Chris Gayle. Gayle got dismissed relatively quickly, making way for the exceptional AB de Villiers to enter. From that point onward, the Kohli and de Villiers spectacle unfolded as the cricketing stalwarts showcased a captivating exhibition for the fans.
Kohli scored 109 off 55 balls, succumbing only in the final over, while the South African maestro, de Villiers, notched up 129 runs. The dynamic duo orchestrated a monumental partnership of 229 runs, propelling the Royal Challengers to a formidable total of 248/3 in their allotted 20 overs. Kohli's impressive innings included five fours and eight sixes.
3. 108* vs Rising Pune Supergiants (2016)
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Kohli might have second-guessed his decision as Rising Pune Supergiants posted a total of 191.
Chasing the 192-run target, Kohli and KL Rahul formed the opening pair for Royal Challengers Bangalore. The duo impressively initiated the innings, with the first wicket falling only in the 11th over when the score reached 94.
On a mission to chase down the target, Kohli showcased his prowess by smashing eight boundaries and seven maximums, securing his second consecutive hundred for RCB. The truly exceptional unbeaten 108-run innings eventually led RCB to chase down the target with three balls and seven wickets remaining.
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4. 101*vs Gujarat Titans (2023)
In a crucial match against the Gujarat Titans (GT), Kohli demonstrated the value of experience and rose to the occasion. Rain affected the game, and RCB had to bat on a moisture-laden pitch, which was far from ideal.
Kohli and du Plessis quickly built a 50+ score, but a series of wickets forced Kohli to moderate his pace. However, he opted to maintain an attacking approach against the bowlers. Despite losing partners at the other end, the determined right-hander continued to play with a high tempo. Demonstrating his ability to find gaps effortlessly, Kohli paced the innings perfectly, securing his second consecutive century of the season in the company of Anuj Rawat (23*).
Facing GT's formidable bowling attack, Kohli propelled RCB to 197/5 in 20 overs with his unbeaten innings. His innings comprised 13 fours and 1 six, boasting a striking rate of 165.57. This marked the second consecutive century for ''King Kohli,'' and RCB concluded their innings at 197/5 after 20 overs. Unfortunately, despite Kohli's stellar efforts, Shubman Gill, Kohli's admirer and teammate in Team India, played a phenomenal inning of 104* runs off 52 balls, leading his side to victory.
5. 100 vs Kolkata Knight Riders (2019)
Taking charge after Parthiv Patel's dismissal in the fourth over when the scoreboard stood at 18, Kohli opened the innings with him. Akshdeep Nath, batting at number three, couldn't establish a substantial partnership with the captain and departed before the ninth over. Kohli then teamed up with Moeen Ali, and the duo delivered an impressive performance, with Kohli reaching a century while Moeen contributed 66 runs.
Kohli significantly contributed to RCB's total of 213 with his outstanding innings. His ability to execute conventional and unorthodox shots throughout the match showcased a remarkable batting masterclass. Despite a slow start, Kohli accelerated towards the end, ensuring his team surpassed the 200-run mark. RCB ultimately secured victory by ten runs, and Kohli rightfully earned the title Player of the Match.
Conclusion -
In the realm of IPL brilliance, Virat Kohli's five most spectacular knocks are a testament to his cricketing genius. From record-breaking centuries to match-defining innings, Kohli has left an indelible mark. Download the Fast Live Line app and visit the website to stay connected with every cricketing moment. With its cricket live line feature and expertise from a live line guru, experience the thrill of the game in real-time. Don't miss a beat – witness cricket's magic unfold with the Fast Live Line app and website.
