Cricket fans worldwide celebrated as Virat Kohli achieved his 81st international century on November 24, 2024. The milestone came during the first Test between India and Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. This century, his first of the year, highlighted Kohli’s determination and readiness ahead of a significant upcoming event, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Virat Kohli scored his 81st international century, reaffirming his status as a cricket legend.
- He is preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, aiming to lead India to another global title.
- Kohli is now only 20 centuries away from equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 centuries.
The All-Time List of Most International Centuries
| Player | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 664 | 782 | 34357 | 248* | 48.52 | 100 | 164 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 538 | 601 | 27134 | 254* | 52.78 | 81 | 141 |
| Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 560 | 668 | 27483 | 257 | 45.95 | 71 | 146 |
| Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 594 | 666 | 28016 | 319 | 46.77 | 63 | 153 |
| Jacques Kallis (SA) | 519 | 617 | 25534 | 224 | 49.1 | 62 | 149 |
Kohli’s Preparation for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to take place next year, Kohli’s form becomes crucial for India’s chances of reclaiming the title. Kohli, known for excelling in high-pressure tournaments, has a history of delivering match-winning performances in ICC events.
Kohli’s ICC Legacy
- Kohli has been instrumental in India’s success in ICC tournaments, including the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
- As India’s top scorer in the 2017 Champions Trophy, his consistency in big games is unmatched.
- Fans are eagerly waiting for him to lead from the front in 2025, potentially adding to his tally of international centuries.
Can Kohli Surpass Tendulkar?
While the spotlight remains on Kohli’s preparation for the Champions Trophy, the bigger question looms: Can he break Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 centuries? At 36 years old, Kohli needs 20 more centuries to equal the legendary feat.
Kohli’s strength lies in his fitness and mental resilience. He has already broken Tendulkar’s record of most One-Day International (ODI) centuries, with an astounding 50 ODI tons to his name.
Key Challenges
- Balancing formats while staying fit for major tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
- Managing the mental and physical toll of continuous international cricket.
- Consistently scoring in ICC events, where every game is crucial.
Other Century-Makers: Kohli’s Competition
As Kohli eyes records and prepares for the Champions Trophy, it’s worth noting the achievements of other cricketing greats:
Kohli’s Remarkable Career So Far
Kohli’s statistics demonstrate his extraordinary skill and determination:
- Matches Played: 538
- Total Runs: Over 27,000 across formats.
- Average: An impressive 52.78.
Performance in ICC Tournaments
- T20 World Cups: Kohli’s brilliance in chasing under pressure has earned him accolades like “King of Chases.”
- ODI World Cups: He has several pivotal innings, ensuring India’s progress in key matches.
- Champions Trophy: A proven performer, Kohli’s consistency is expected to shine in the 2025 edition.
Why ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is Significant
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hosted in Pakistan, holds special significance for fans and players alike. The tournament, often referred to as the “mini World Cup,” features the top cricketing nations competing in intense matches.
Importance for Kohli and India
- It could be Kohli’s last ICC event, given his age.
- Winning the trophy would cement his legacy as one of India’s greatest captains.
- Success in the tournament could bring him closer to Tendulkar’s record.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s journey to 81 international centuries is already legendary. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, fans are optimistic about his form and leadership. Whether he surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s 100 centuries or not, Kohli’s place as one of cricket’s all-time greats is undisputed.
The Champions Trophy adds an exciting layer to his career, as he aims to lead India to another global victory. For cricket enthusiasts, the countdown to 2025 has already begun.
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