September 8, 2022: The day Virat Kohli ended his century drought in style.
Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli, known for his consistency, had experienced a lean patch in the run-getting department for over two years. However, his class and hunger remained undimmed.
The drought ended spectacularly on September 8, 2022, during India’s Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Afghanistan in Dubai. Sent in to open for the first time in T20Is with Rohit Sharma rested, Kohli made it a day to remember for himself and fans alike.
He played a fine innings of unbeaten 122 off 61 balls, a strike rate of nearly 200. It was his first T20I century, coming at a critical juncture of his career. More importantly, it broke a prolonged wait of 1020 days for his 71st international ton.
Kohli’s innings was a delightful blend of controlled aggression. He maintained a calm composure despite the early loss of KL Rahul’s wicket. Finding the gaps effortlessly, Kohli grew in confidence and did not hesitate to counterattack.
By the time he reached his half-century in just 32 balls, the class was evident. In the death overs, Kohli’s flourishes included audacious reverse sweeps and flick shots that underscored his stunning form revival.
The knock guided India to a massive 212, which proved well beyond Afghanistan. Most significantly, Kohli silenced his critics with a masterful display that signaled his elite consistency was still intact.
The Dubai century encapsulated Kohli’s determination, skills, and hunger for runs on the biggest stages. Fans and experts alike were delighted to see one of modern cricket’s greats back at his very best.
