In a cricketing career distinguished by remarkable talent and unparalleled achievements, Virat Kohli now stands on the threshold of breaking two iconic records, further cementing his legacy among the pantheon of cricketing greats. As the Indian cricket team gears up for the second Test match against Bangladesh in Kanpur, all eyes are on Kohli, who is just a few runs away from etching his name in the annals of cricket history.
The year 2024, however, hasn’t been particularly kind to the former Indian captain. Kohli has struggled to find his rhythm in international cricket, with his form being inconsistent at best. Despite his proven track record, the only standout performance of the year came during the T20 World Cup final, where he contributed significantly to India’s cause. Prior to the current series, his Test match appearances were sparse, playing only two matches while missing five crucial encounters against England on home soil earlier in the year.
In the recent first Test against Bangladesh, Kohli could only manage a meager 23 runs across two innings. While this might seem unimpressive for someone of his caliber, it was enough for him to break Sachin Tendulkar’s record and become the fastest cricketer to score 12,000 runs in home conditions in international cricket.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to Kanpur, Kohli is now on the brink of breaking not just Tendulkar’s, but also the legendary Don Bradman’s records. Kohli is tantalizingly close to completing 27,000 runs in international cricket, needing just 35 more runs to reach this historic milestone. Achieving this feat will not only make him the fastest player to do so but will also place him alongside an elite group of cricketers, including Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, and Ricky Ponting, who have previously accomplished this monumental task.
To provide a bit of context, the list of players with the most international runs is dominated by these legends. Kohli’s potential feat, therefore, is no small accomplishment. His journey to 27,000 runs has been filled with some breathtaking innings, showcasing his skill, determination, and unwavering focus.
Beyond his batting prowess, Virat Kohli also has the chance to surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most catches for India in Test matches.
. Currently, Kohli has taken 113 catches in the longest format of the game, and he needs just three more to overtake Tendulkar in this aspect. While Rahul Dravid holds the top spot with 210 catches, followed by VVS Laxman with 135, Kohli’s potential achievement is noteworthy and highlights his all-around contribution to the team.
Amid these impending milestones, Kohli has another record in his sights. He is set to break Don Bradman’s tally of centuries in Test cricket. Both Kohli and the Australian legend currently share the record with 29 Test centuries. One more century will allow Kohli to surpass Bradman, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.
However, achieving these records is no foregone conclusion. Kohli will need to ensure he finds his form and remains in control throughout his innings. His performance in Chennai, where he was dismissed too early while attempting a cover drive, serves as a cautionary tale. To make his mark in Kanpur, Kohli will need to exhibit patience and precision, biding his time to find the right moments to execute his signature shots.
The anticipation ahead of the second Test is palpable, with not only Indian fans but cricket enthusiasts worldwide waiting to see if Kohli can achieve these milestones. His potential achievements epitomize the blend of talent, discipline, and perseverance that define his illustrious career.
As the cricketing fraternity readies itself for the second Test match in Kanpur, the spotlight remains firmly on Virat Kohli. Will he surpass the legendary records of Sachin Tendulkar and Don Bradman? Will he continue to add layers to his already storied career? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the legacy of Virat Kohli.
