Kohli's Unforgettable 139 in Dhoni's Hometown

In a memorable encounter back in 2014, Virat Kohli displayed his exceptional talent in Ranchi, the hometown of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, by scoring an unbeaten 139 runs against Sri Lanka. This match remains one of the highlights of Kohli's career, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

At that time, the Indian team was on the verge of a remarkable series victory, leading 4-0 in the five-match ODI series. However, the fifth ODI presented a significant challenge as Sri Lanka set a target of 287 runs, powered by their captain Angelo Mathews, who scored an impressive 139 runs.

India's chase began poorly, with the team quickly falling to 14 for 2, raising concerns among fans about the possibility of losing their winning streak. In a tactical move, Kohli allowed Ambati Rayudu to bat at number three, positioning himself at number four. This decision proved crucial as it allowed Kohli to settle into the game.

Once he was at the crease, Kohli played a remarkable innings, reminiscent of Dhoni's iconic style of finishing games. As wickets fell around him, Kohli remained calm and composed, playing some breathtaking shots. He scored 12 fours and hit three sixes, showcasing his aggressive yet controlled batting approach.

The climax of the match came when Kohli hit a six to seal the victory, echoing the heroics often associated with Dhoni. The only difference was that Kohli finished the match in the 49th over, while Dhoni was known for his dramatic last-over finishes. This innings marked Kohli's 21st century in ODIs, with 13 of those leading to successful chases for India.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Kohli also received his fourth Player of the Series award in ODIs during this series. As the Indian ODI team prepares to face South Africa in Ranchi again, fans are excited to see if Kohli can conjure up the same magic once more, rekindling the memories of that unforgettable innings.