Virat Kohli Smashes 30th Test Century as India Declare with Mammoth Lead
India captain Virat Kohli made history again. He scored his 30th Test century on Day 4 of the second Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Kohli’s brilliant innings of resilience and class powered India to 487/6. The visitors then declared, setting Australia a target of 534 runs.
This was Kohli’s 9th Test hundred against Australia. It reaffirmed his dominance over one of India’s fiercest rivals.
Kohli’s 30th Test Century: A Moment of Glory
Kohli’s century came in style. He swept a delivery, pitched around the leg stump, to the boundary. That shot was one of the most emotional moments of his career. Upon reaching the landmark, Kohli took off his helmet. He raised his bat to the crowd and celebrated with a flying kiss to his wife, Anushka Sharma, who was there.
Speaking after the declaration, Kohli expressed his joy:
“Yeah looks Anushka has been right by my side. She knows everything what goes behind the scenes in my room. She knows how it feels like as I was unable to get runs for my team. I take a lot of pride playing for my country and I am really happy to get one here in front of her.”
This was Kohli’s first Test century in over five innings. It silenced critics who questioned his form. With only two Test hundreds in recent years, the Indian skipper reminded the world why he is a modern great.
Most Test 100s in Australia for an Asian batter:
- 7 – Virat Kohli*
- 6 – Sachin Tendulkar
- 5 -Sunil Gavaskar
- 4 – VVS Laxman
Key Stats from Kohli’s Innings:
- Runs: 100*
- Balls Faced: 143
- Fours: 9
- Sixes : 2
- Strike Rate:93
India Declare at 487/6 After 134.3 Overs
India declared their innings at 487/6, with Kohli’s century the highlight. They batted for an exhausting 134.3 overs. Jasprit Bumrah, acting captain for a moment, called the players off the field after Kohli’s hundred.
India’s strong batting has left Australia a huge task. They must chase 534 runs on a deteriorating pitch.
India’s Innings Summary:
- Total: 487/6 declared
- Overs Batted:3
- Lead: 533 runs
The Crowd Erupts for King Kohli
The moment Kohli raised his bat to acknowledge the crowd was a spectacle in itself. Fans in the stands at the Optus Stadium erupted in cheers. Millions worldwide celebrated the return of the “King.” Kohli stood in the middle of the stadium, arms raised high. He soaked in the applause and reflected on the moment’s importance.
For Indian cricket fans, this century is more than a milestone. It shows Kohli’s deep passion to represent his country.
A Tough Task Ahead for Australia
The hosts face a huge challenge. They must chase 534 runs in the fourth innings. It would require a record-breaking effort. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin, will exploit the deteriorating pitch at the Optus Stadium.
Match Situation:
- Target for Australia: 534 runs
- Overs Remaining: Approximately 150
- Pitch Conditions: Breaking up, favoring spinners and reverse swing
Virat Kohli’s 30th Test century was a personal milestone. But, it also defined the match, tilting it in India’s favor. With a lead of 533 runs and two days left, India are set to win in Perth. They must bowl out Australia.
