By Dr V Palanivel 
Virat Kohli’s Greatest Centuries Cricket is a game of legends, and few players have left a mark as profound as Virat Kohli. Known for his unmatched consistency, aggressive style, and impeccable technique, Kohli has amassed a staggering number of centuries across all formats. Whether it’s Test cricket, ODIs, or T20s, Kohli has consistently delivered match-winning performances. In this article, we take a deep dive into Virat Kohli’s greatest centuries, his highest scores, and his overall impact on Indian cricket.
Virat Kohli’s Century Milestones
Virat Kohli has been a prolific run-scorer since making his international debut in 2008. Over the years, he has notched up over 75 international centuries, making him one of the top century-makers in cricket history. His hunger for runs and fitness levels have made him one of the most dominant batsmen of his era. Here are some of his most iconic centuries.
133 vs Sri Lanka (CB Series, 2012 – ODI)*
One of Kohli’s most breathtaking knocks came in the 2012 Commonwealth Bank Series against Sri Lanka. Chasing a target of 321, India needed to win within 40 overs to stay alive in the series. Kohli played a masterclass, scoring 133* off just 86 balls, dismantling Lasith Malinga and leading India to a historic victory. This innings cemented his reputation as the ‘Chase Master’.
183 vs Pakistan (Asia Cup 2012 – ODI)
Kohli’s highest score in ODIs came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup. Chasing a daunting target of 330, Kohli played a magnificent knock of 183 runs off 148 balls. His stroke play, timing, and ability to handle pressure were on full display as India secured a thrilling win.
254 vs South Africa (Pune, 2019 – Test)*
In Test cricket, Kohli’s hunger for big scores has been evident. One of his finest innings came against South Africa in Pune in 2019, where he scored an unbeaten 254. This innings showcased his patience, temperament, and ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks. His double century propelled India to an emphatic victory.
149 vs England (Edgbaston, 2018 – Test)
One of Kohli’s most significant centuries came against England at Edgbaston in 2018. After struggling in the 2014 tour of England, Kohli silenced critics with a resilient 149. Despite wickets falling around him, he single-handedly kept India in the game. His determination and technique in challenging conditions made this one of his most memorable innings.
100 vs Australia (Perth, 2018 – Test)*
Scoring a century on the fast and bouncy pitch of Perth is no easy feat, but Kohli made it look effortless. Against Australia in 2018, he played a sublime knock of 123, standing tall against a fierce pace attack. His cover drives and resilience under pressure made this one of his most aesthetic centuries.
Kohli’s Highest Score Across Formats
Test Cricket: 254* vs South Africa (2019)
ODI Cricket: 183 vs Pakistan (2012)
T20I Cricket: 122* vs Afghanistan (2022)
Virat Kohli’s Century Count in India
Kohli has scored numerous centuries on Indian soil, making him one of the most successful batsmen in home conditions. His dominance in Indian stadiums has been remarkable, particularly in Test cricket, where he has played match-winning knocks against some of the best bowling attacks in the world.
Virat Kohli’s centuries are more than just numbers; they are stories of perseverance, determination, and mastery of the game. His ability to perform under pressure, chase down impossible targets, and dominate world-class bowlers makes him one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. As he continues to build his legacy, cricket fans can only wait for more breathtaking centuries from the modern-day maestro.
Read also: List of international cricket centuries by Virat Kohli