Virat Kohli, the ex Indian captain, displayed his dominance with the bat, crafting a majestic overseas century to lead India to a formidable total of 438 on the second day of the second Test against West Indies. The hosts, seeking redemption after a loss in the opening Test of the series, faced a daunting task as they began their reply. However, Kohli’s century was the highlight of second day of second test at Port of Spain.
Kohli’s masterful innings of 121 off 206 deliveries, adorned with 11 boundaries, proved instrumental in elevating India’s score, after they started the day at 288-4. Alongside contributions from Ravindra Jadeja (61) and spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin (56), Kohli anchored the innings, allowing India to build a commanding total.
Kohli’s century in his 500th match for India across all formats exemplified his form and determination. His 76th century overall, and first hundred outside India since the 2018 Perth Test against Australia, marked a significant milestone for the former captain. Furthermore, the century equaled the legendary Australian batsman Don Bradman’s record of 29 Test centuries.
The 34-year-old’s magnificent knock came to an end when he was run out by Alzarri Joseph, breaking his 159-run fifth-wicket partnership with Jadeja. Kemar Roach played a crucial role in dismantling the Indian middle-order, taking 3-104, including the vital wicket of Jadeja.
Some Trivia Related With Kohli’s Century:
- With this magnificent ton, Virat Kohli became the first batter in history of cricket to hit a ton in his 500th match.
- Kohli overpowered Sachin Tendulkar in terms of numbers of centuries scored in 500 matches. Tendulkar had 75 centuries to his name, now Virat Kohli has 76.
- Virat Kohli celebrated his century with a humble expression of gratitude and he kissed his wedding ring. It meant that he dedicated this century to his wife.
- Ricky Ponting had 68 centuries in 500 matches of his career and next to him is another great from South Africa. Jacques Kallis had 60 tons to his name.
- The incredible knock at Port of Spain was Virat’s 15th century in overseas conditions. It took him 5 years to create this moment.
- It is a matter of coincidence that Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, both brought their 29th test match century at Port of Spain in 2002 and 1983 respectively.
- Virat Kohli has been runout only two times before this innings, both in Adelaide against Australia in 2012 and 2020.
With Kohli’s century and batting masterclass setting the tone for India’s dominant performance, the visitors are now primed to assert their authority in the second Test. West Indies, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to curtail India’s lead and mount a compelling response in their quest to level the series.
West Indies Yet To Manifest A Solid Response
Facing the challenge of testing conditions, the West Indies commenced their reply cautiously. Opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul showed resilience at the crease with a steady 33 runs off 95 balls before falling to the wily spin of Jadeja, caught by Ashwin just before stumps.
As the day concluded, the West Indies had reached 86-1, with captain Kraigg Brathwaite undefeated on 37, partnered by debutant Kirk McKenzie (14 not out). Despite the promising start, the hosts remain mindful of the challenge ahead, as they trail India by 352 runs with nine wickets in hand before the third day’s play.
As the contest enters its third day, cricket fans anticipate further enthralling moments as both teams strive to seize the advantage in a series that promises to be a captivating battle of skill and determination.
