Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli Bowls in World Cup 2023 After 8 Years, Completes Injured Hardik Pandya’s Over

by
virat kohli bowl after 8 years

In a rare and unexpected twist, Indian cricket fans were treated to a remarkable sight during the India vs. Bangladesh World Cup 2023 match. The iconic Virat Kohli, renowned for his formidable batting prowess, took on an unaccustomed role as a bowler, marking his return to the bowling crease in a World Cup match after an eight-year hiatus.

The audience at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium was sent into a frenzy of excitement as Kohli stepped up to deliver three crucial deliveries. This remarkable spectacle was indeed a departure from the norm, as the world had grown accustomed to Kohli’s exceptional skills with the bat, rather than the ball.

To put the significance of this moment into perspective, Kohli’s last foray into bowling during a World Cup event was back in 2015 when he was under the captaincy of the legendary MS Dhoni. In a match against Australia at Sydney, Kohli had bowled an over before being called away by the captain. This eight-year gap has further heightened the rarity of his recent bowling stint.

This unforeseen occurrence unfolded when all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who was initially handling the bowling responsibilities, sustained an unfortunate leg injury that forced him to prematurely exit the field of play. Kohli, in a commendable display of adaptability, took up the mantle to complete Pandya’s over.

Kohli, though primarily known for his batsmanship, demonstrated his versatility by delivering three deliveries at an impressive pace, averaging around 105 kilometers per hour. He displayed an admirable level of skill and control, conceding a mere two runs during this critical juncture.

The momentous occasion reverberated across social media, where fans and cricket enthusiasts expressed their astonishment and admiration for Kohli’s exceptional all-around abilities.

Hardik Pandya’s injury, which led to this unexpected turn of events, occurred when he attempted to thwart a formidable drive from Bangladesh’s Tanzid during the 9th over. In his valiant effort to intercept the delivery, Pandya stretched his right leg, and unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury during the landing phase of his movement. Despite seeking immediate assistance from the physiotherapist, Pandya’s injury proved to be too debilitating to allow him to continue his over. Although the physiotherapists endeavored to provide treatment by taping his left ankle, Pandya had no choice but to leave the field, leaving a temporary vacuum in India’s bowling lineup.

As cricket enthusiasts await the latest updates on Hardik Pandya’s injury status, Virat Kohli’s memorable return to bowling, albeit under unforeseen circumstances, has added another captivating chapter to his storied career and provided an unexpected highlight in the thrilling landscape of international cricket.

Also Read: Virat Kohli’s 48th ODI Century Powers India to Victory in World Cup 2023

Virat Kohli’s 48th ODI Century Powers India to Victory in World Cup 2023

by
Virat Kohli's 48th ODI Century Powers India to Victory in World Cup 2023

Indian cricket fans were left in awe as their beloved cricketer, Virat Kohli, showcased his mastery in a World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh in Pune. Kohli’s remarkable century triggered an outpour of appreciation on social media, hailing him as the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT).

However, it wasn’t just Kohli who earned accolades; umpire Richard Kettleborough found himself in the spotlight as well. He garnered praise from Indian cricket enthusiasts for a rather pivotal decision. Kettleborough opted not to call a wide despite a Bangladeshi bowler delivering a ball that appeared significantly wide. This decision, which preserved Kohli’s opportunity to score a century, resonated with cricket fans.

The particular delivery, initially deemed wide by spectators, was judged otherwise by Kettleborough. It is likely that the umpire observed Kohli shifting slightly away from the ball’s trajectory. Had Kohli remained in his original position, the ball might have struck him on the pads, which contributed to Kettleborough’s decision to not award it as a wide.

Chasing a target of 257, Virat Kohli displayed his class and finesse, sealing his 48th ODI century and his 78th international century. His remarkable innings culminated in a six, propelling India to victory at 261/3 in just 41.3 overs. Kohli’s elegant knock was adorned with six boundaries and four towering sixes, leaving spectators in sheer admiration.

India’s exceptional performance in the World Cup 2023 is reflected in their flawless record of four wins in as many matches. Currently occupying the second position in the points table with eight points, they are only surpassed by New Zealand, who maintain the top spot with a superior net run rate. In stark contrast, Bangladesh finds itself in the seventh position, with just one victory and three losses.

Bangladesh, confronted by the formidable Indian team, faced an uphill battle, which was further exacerbated by the absence of their skipper, Shakib Al Hasan, who was sidelined due to a left quad injury. Opting to bat first, Bangladesh could not capitalize on the promising 93-run opening partnership between Litton Das and Tanzid Hasan, ultimately setting a target of 256-8. The stage was set for India’s reply, with Captain Rohit Sharma spearheading the chase, while Virat Kohli’s unbeaten century secured an emphatic win for India, with a resounding 51 balls to spare.

This memorable performance by Kohli and the team has once again ignited the fervor and excitement of cricket enthusiasts in India, who proudly rally behind their cricketing heroes on the world stage.

Virat Kohli’s Spectacular Records in the ICC World Test Championship

by

Virat Kohli's Spectacular Records in the ICC World Test Championship

In the highly anticipated WTC Final of 2023, cricket fans witnessed the awe-inspiring brilliance of Virat Kohli as he etched his name in the annals of cricketing history. With an exceptional knock of 44* runs in the second innings against the formidable Australian team, Kohli shattered multiple records, leaving a lasting impact on the ICC World Test Championship. Let’s dive into the astounding records set by the maestro himself.

Kohli’s Dominance against Australia

On the fourth day of the WTC Final, Virat Kohli achieved a remarkable feat by amassing 2000 test runs against Australia, joining the esteemed ranks of only five Indian cricketers to achieve this milestone. His performance against the Aussies has been nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his sheer love for the game, especially in the realm of test cricket against Australia in their own den.

Over the course of 25 test matches, Kohli amassed a staggering 2037 runs at an average of 48.50, including eight centuries and five half-centuries. Standing just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who amassed 3630 runs against Australia in 36 test matches at an average of 55.0, Kohli’s record against the Aussies remains a testament to his exceptional batting prowess.

Dominating the Australians in International Cricket

Virat Kohli’s dominance against Australia extends beyond the test arena. In a monumental achievement, he crossed the 5000-run mark in international cricket against Australia, becoming only the second player in the world to accomplish this feat. In 93 matches against the Aussies, Kohli boasts an impressive average of 51.05, including a remarkable tally of sixteen centuries and 24 half-centuries.

Record-Breaking Performances in ICC Knockouts

Virat Kohli’s consistency in ICC tournaments has propelled him to new heights, breaking records along the way. In the WTC Final, he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 657 runs in ICC tournament knockouts, accumulating a staggering 680 runs in 18 innings. Kohli’s remarkable performances in ICC tournaments have been a key factor in India’s success, solidifying his status as a match-winner.

Reigning Supreme in the World Test Championship

Virat Kohli’s impact in the World Test Championship (WTC) has been unparalleled. In yet another monumental achievement, he claimed the title of the highest run-scorer for India in the WTC. With an impressive tally of 1803 runs, Kohli’s dominance in the tournament has been instrumental in India’s journey to the final. Hot on his heels is the dynamic opener Rohit Sharma, who trails by a mere nine runs with 1794 to his name.

The Elite Club of Runs against Australia

In the illustrious history of Indian cricket, a select few have excelled against Australia. Virat Kohli’s exceptional records place him among the greats who have left an indelible mark in the India vs. Australia rivalry. Let’s take a look at the exclusive club of

Most run-scorers for India against Australia in Tests:

  • Sachin Tendulkar: 3630 runs in 39 matches, including 11 centuries.
  • VVS Laxman: 2434 runs in 29 matches, including 6 centuries.
  • Rahul Dravid: 2143 runs in 32 matches, including 2 centuries.
  • Cheteshwar Pujara: 2074* runs in 25 matches, including 5 centuries.
  • Virat Kohli: 2025* runs in 25 matches, including 8 centuries.

The Leading Lights in ICC Knockouts

In the high-stakes environment of ICC knockouts, Kohli has consistently shone bright for the Indian team.

Here are the Top performers for India in ICC knockout matches, including the recent WTC Final:

  • Virat Kohli: 680* runs in 18 innings.
  • Sachin Tendulkar: 657 runs in 14 innings.
  • Rohit Sharma: 620* runs in 17 innings.
  • Sourav Ganguly: 514 runs in 8 innings.
  • Yuvraj Singh: 458 runs in 14 innings.

Virat Kohli’s extraordinary records in the ICC World Test Championship, his unparalleled performances against Australia, and his consistency in ICC tournaments have cemented his status as one of cricket’s modern-day legends. With each milestone he achieves, Kohli continues to inspire and captivate cricket enthusiasts around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s rich history.

Most Runs in an IPL Season: Gill becomes the second Indian after Kohli to reach 850 runs in the IPL in 2023

by
Most Runs in an IPL Season: Gill becomes the second Indian after Kohli to reach 850 runs in the IPL in 2023
Image: Twitter

Over the course of its 16 seasons, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen some of the best batters in the world dominate the charts.

A select few elite batters have produced mesmerizing run-scoring streaks that have single-handedly propelled their teams to victory.

Most runs in an IPL season:

Gill has achieved a milestone of crossing 850 runs in IPL 2023 with his third hundred. He is now the second Indian player after Kohli to achieve this feat.

Here is a list of the batters who have scored the most runs in an IPL season across 16 editions since 2008, from Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill:

List of Most Runs by a Player in an IPL Season

Name and YearMatchesRunsAverageStrike Rate100s50sHighest Score
Virat Kohli (RCB) – 20161697381.08152.0347113
Jos Buttler (RR) – 20221786357.53149.0544116
Shubman Gill (GT) – 20231685160.78156.4335129
David Warner (SRH) – 20161784860.57151.420993*
Kane Williamson (SRH) – 20181773552.50142.440884

Throughout the 16 editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), numerous elite batters have emerged as dominant forces on the charts.

A select few elite batters have produced mesmerizing run-scoring streaks that have single-handedly propelled their teams to victory.

Shubman Gill has scored his third century of the IPL 2023 season while playing for GT against MI. He has now accumulated over 800 runs and is currently leading the Orange Cap race.

The IPL 2016 season witnessed Virat Kohli, the former captain of India and Royal Challengers Bangalore, achieving the highest aggregate by any batter in that particular edition. Kohli accumulated 973 runs in 16 matches, including four centuries and seven fifties, while playing for RCB, which finished as the runner-up.

Jos Buttler, the captain of England’s white-ball team, secured the second spot on the list by scoring four centuries for Rajasthan Royals during the IPL 2022 season. He amassed a total of 863 runs during this period. In the 2016 season, David Warner accumulated a total of 848 runs while captaining the Sunrisers Hyderabad to their first-ever title victory against RCB.

During the Qualifier 2 match against Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2023 season, Shubman Gill, the opener for Gujarat Titans, achieved the milestone of crossing the 800-run mark, making him the fourth overall and second Indian to do so. The individual known as Gill achieved their third century of the Indian Premier League season, joining Kohli as the only other Indian to accomplish three or more centuries in a single IPL season.

A total of 129 runs were scored by Gill in 60 balls, including seven fours and 10 sixes. The individual score achieved by him in an IPL Playoffs match has exceeded Virender Sehwag’s record of 122 for PBKS in 2014.

Read | Shubman gill score his first ipl Century against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Most centuries in an IPL season by a player

Virat Kohli Scores 7000 Runs, First in IPL History: Achieves Feat During DC vs RCB IPL 2023 Match

Virat Kohli breaks Chris Gayle’s record for most Centuries in Indian Premier League

by

Virat Kohli breaks Chris Gayle's record for most Centuries in Indian Premier League
Hardik Pandya hugged Virat Kohli on scoring a century.

In the 2023 Indian Premier League match between the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Gujarat Tigers, Virat Kohli surpassed Chris Gayle’s record of seven centuries with two successive centuries. Kohli scored 101 runs off 61 balls in RCB’s must-win game on Sunday.

With his seventh century in IPL play, Virat Kohli surpassed Chris Gayle’s previous record of six hundreds. Chris Gayle bows down to Virat Kohli after his 7th century.

Chris Gayle bows down to King Kohli after his 7th century.

Virat Kohli scored the second century of IPL 2023

This game is either do-or-die for RCB to earn their place in the playoffs. The Mumbai Indians will advance to the playoffs if Bangalore loses. Virat Kohli once again demonstrated his leadership qualities in the decisive match. Kohli hit four fours and a six to reach 101 runs off of 61 balls. Kohli has now set a new record with seven hundreds in IPL history, including two in this season alone.

In addition to Virat Kohli, captain Faf du Plessis contributed by smashing 28 runs off of 19 balls, including five fours. Michael Bracewell, batting in the middle of the order, scored 26 runs off of 16 balls, with the help of five fours. Anuj Rawat, a 23-year-old left-hander, smashed Mohit Sharma for a six and a four in the last over. With the help of one four and one six, he was able to score 15 runs off of 15 balls.

It will take 198 runs for the Gujarat Titans to win in 20 overs. The bright side for GT is that their overall point total won’t alter dramatically win or lose. He will continue to be at the head of the pack. If RCB loses this game, though, their chances of making the playoffs this year are gone for ever.

For RCB’s match against GT

  • Virat Kohli scored 101 runs (not out) off 61 balls.
  • Kohli scored his second consecutive century in IPL 2023.
  • Kohli now has more hundreds in IPL history than Gayle did, who had 6.

On Sunday, May 21, Virat Kohli became the first hitter in Indian Premier League history to smash seven hundreds. In a must-win encounter for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2023 against the Gujarat Titans at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli smashed a 60-ball century, surpassing Chris Gayle’s record of six centuries.

After making a century against SunRisers Hyderabad on May 19, Virat Kohli made his second consecutive triple-digit score on Sunday. The M Chinnaswamy Stadium audience went wild when Virat Kohl­ scored his fourth hundred at the storied ground.

Virat Kohli reached his century in the penultimate over, but his celebrations were unexpectedly subdued. He had a greater task at hand, however, and that was to help Royal Challengers Bangalore post a large total.

In the stands in Bengaluru, Anushka Sharma blew Virat Kohli kisses while the entire RCB dugout stood to applaud his sensational performance. Some of the players even bowed down to Kohli, who was clearly the dominant force in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli joined Shikhar Dhawan and Jos Buttler as the only other players with two consecutive hundreds in the IPL. Dhawan accomplished this in IPL 2020, whereas Buttler did it in 2019.

Most Century in IPL History

  • Virat Kohli – 7 in 237 matches
  • Chris Gayle – 6 in 142 matches
  • Jos Buttler – 5 in 96 matches

After the earlier Sunday victory by Mumbai Indians over SunRisers Hyderabad put them at 16 points, RCB needed nothing less than a victory, and Kohli delivered with a brilliant knock under real duress.

Hardik Pandya, who won the toss after play was delayed due to rain, put RCB in to bat.When Faf du Plessis took the strike, Kohli started cautiously, reaching 8 off 10 balls. The former skipper, however, got going and smashed three boundaries off of Yash Dayal’s left-arm pacer in one over.

Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, and Mahipal Lomror all fell to the spin of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad, and RCB seemed to lose their footing after a promising powerplay. But Kohli kept his cool and played a disciplined performance that kept the RCB innings together.

K.L. Rahul of India is expected to miss the World Test Championship final due to injury

by

K.L. Rahul of India is expected to miss the World Test Championship final due to injury
Image by IANS

K.L. Rahul, India’s wicketkeeper-batsman, may miss the World Test Championship final against Australia in June due to a right leg injury. Rahul suffered the injury while playing for his side, Lucknow Super Giants, against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming IPL 2023.

According to Cricbuzz, Rahul is now in Mumbai for scans, and his participation in the WTC final, which will be held at The Oval from June 7-11, will be contingent on the results. While the degree of the damage is uncertain, some assume that it is a hamstring or hip problem.

After a bizarre training mishap, left-arm bowler Jaydev Unadkat has been ruled out of the IPL, and his WTC final preparation is also in doubt. Unadkat was bowling around the wicket in the nets when his left foot became entangled in the orange rope that held the nets in place, causing him to fall heavily on his left elbow.

After the league stage of the IPL 2023 concludes on May 21, the Indian squad will depart for London for the WTC final on May 23. Players from IPL playoff teams will go to London at a later date.

Once the degree of Rahul’s injury is revealed, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may name substitutes. Ishan Kishan, who recently played for India, is being mentioned as a possible substitute and might act as the second wicketkeeper for the one-off Test.

Virat Kohli Scores 7000 Runs, First in IPL History: Achieves Feat During DC vs RCB IPL 2023 Match

by

Virat Kohli become First batter in IPL history to achieve 7000 runs

In the DC vs. RCB match in New Delhi, Virat Kohli continued his impressive form from earlier in the IPL 2023.

In the ongoing encounter between RCB and DC in the IPL 2023, Virat Kohli made history as the first batter in tournament records. After scoring 12 runs in New Delhi, the former RCB captain became the first batsman in IPL history to score 7,000 runs.

With 375 runs in 10 games at an average of 45.50 and a strike rate of 137.87, Kohli is in fine form as well and entered this game ranked sixth in the IPL 2023 Orange Cap race.

Even before this game, he had scored 6988 runs in 233 games, making him the all-time IPL leader in that category. Kohli has scored five hundreds and forty-nine fifties in his IPL career. After Suresh Raina, he smashed 5000 runs in the 2019 IPL season, and then he became the first batter in IPL history to hit 6000 runs in 2021.

Virat Kohli become First batter in IPL history to achieve 7000 runs

The gap between Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan in the all-time run table is a major factor in Kohli’s overwhelming success in the IPL. With 6536 runs in 213 games, the PBKS captain is well ahead of second-place David Warner, captain of the opposing DC team. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma, captain of MI, is in fourth place with 6063 runs.

Kohli suffered his worst ever IPL season last year, scoring 341 runs in 16 games at an average of just 22.73. However, he quickly regained his form at the Asia Cup and finished as the tournament’s leading run scorer.

RCB sit sixth in the standings with 10 points after nine matches, split evenly between five victories and four losses, despite Kohli’s strong form. While Kohli led the IPL in runs scored with 973 as captain, RCB’s season ended in defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Also Read : Most Ducks in IPL History (2008 – 2023): Players With Most Zero Run Scores in Indian Premier League

Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir’s viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.

by
Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.
Image from Twitter
In Lucknow, Virat Kohli showed off his boundless energy and humor to the adoring fans. Even though RCB was on the visiting side, Kohli encouraged the Lucknow audience to root for them. Many in the crowd recalled Gautam Gambhir's celebration in Bengaluru as they cheered loudly for Kohli.

Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.
Images from Twitter
Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.

THE MAIN POINTS

• Supporters recalled Gautam Gambhir’s party in Bengaluru.

• The crowd’s reaction to Virat Kohli went viral.

• RCB and LSG played a low-scoring thriller

At the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, Virat Kohli at his fiery best. RCB had to defend a score of 126 against LSG.

Kohli caught two balls during the power play, showed his emotions openly, and engaged the audience in some lighthearted banter. Despite being the away team, RCB had a substantial amount of support from the crowd, with Kohli being a fan favorite just like he is in every other stadium.

Kohli was filmed executing the ‘finger on the lip’ celebration after taking the catch that ended Krunal Pandya’s innings off a delivery by Glenn Maxwell on the boundary line, before blowing flying kisses to the fans and pointing to the RCB emblem, telling people to support them.

Ayush Badoni’s inning ended when Kohli caught him in the next over. Kohli blew a kiss in the air once more. The volume of the audience at this point was the loudest it had been all day. The crowd’s enthusiasm elated Kohli, who encouraged them to keep going and raise their volume.

Kohli’s elation went viral on social media, and his followers responded in kind. After LSG’s last-ball triumph at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, many were reminded of Gautam Gambhir’s move, in which he begged the local crowd to keep hushed after RCB’s defeat by putting fingers on his lips.

 

Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.
Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.
Virat Kohli blows kisses to the crowd and tells the Lucknow fans to cheer for RCB after Gautam Gambhir's viral gesture at Chinnaswamy.
Images from Twitter

Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in Heated Verbal fight after the Match :Watch Video

by
Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in Heated Verbal fight after the Match :Watch Video
Image source: Twitter

A video has gone viral showing a heated verbal fight between former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli and mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Gautam Gambhir.

The incident occurred after RCB defeated LSG by 18 runs in a match. The argument started between Kohli and LSG player Naveen-ul-Haq, leading to the exchange between Kohli and Gambhir.

After Royal Challengers Bangalore’s win against Lucknow Super Giants, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir got into a heated argument.

As the two teams were shaking hands after the match, Kohli and Gambhir were seen arguing with each other, with Gambhir pointing fingers at Kohli. Kohli did not hold back and charged towards Gambhir, making the incident more intense.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO