Kohli Hits 84th Century, Sets ODI Record Again

Virat Kohli has once again proven why he is a powerhouse in ODI cricket by scoring his 84th international century against South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. This remarkable feat came as he smashed his second consecutive century in the series, showcasing his incredible skill and consistency.

Kohli's innings was a thrilling spectacle, as he reached his century in just 90 balls, featuring seven fours and two sixes. His explosive performance not only helped India set a strong target but also reaffirmed his status as a dominant force in limited-overs cricket. Alongside him, Ruturaj Gaikwad also shined, scoring his first ODI century, which added to India's formidable batting display.

This achievement marks the 11th time Kohli has scored consecutive centuries in his ODI career, a record unmatched by any other player. His ability to perform at this level is particularly impressive when considering his previous successes between 2016 and 2018, a time when he regularly hit multiple centuries in a row.

In reaching this milestone, Kohli has pulled ahead of legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar in the ODI centuries tally, now four centuries ahead. With 84 international hundreds to his name, Kohli is only behind Tendulkar's record of 100. His statistics against South Africa are particularly striking, boasting an average of nearly 70, the highest among those who have scored over 1500 runs against them.

Raipur marks the 34th different ODI venue where Kohli has scored a century, equaling Tendulkar's record in this regard. This consistency across various grounds highlights his adaptability and prowess as a batsman.

Looking ahead, Kohli has confirmed his participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi, India's premier domestic 50-over tournament. This decision comes after he was encouraged by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to remain active in the domestic circuit.

Despite concerns from former player Mohammed Kaif regarding the necessity of Kohli's participation in domestic matches, Kohli's recent performances suggest he is still at the top of his game. Kaif noted that Kohli's ability to return to form quickly after a break showcases his skill, indicating that he should not be forced to play in lower-profile tournaments.

In conclusion, Kohli's recent achievements not only enhance his legacy but also excite fans about his future contributions to Indian cricket.