In the ongoing second Test of the series against West Indies in Port of Spain, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli achieved several remarkable milestones. He scored his 29th Test century, his 76th international century, and his 12th international hundred. Notably, this century was also special as it marked his 500th international game for India.
A standout moment came when pacer Shannon Gabriel seemed to gift Kohli a century on this momentous occasion, becoming the first player to score a century on his 500th international match. Gabriel’s unusual decision to offer a half-volley instead of testing Kohli with a bouncer or a back-of-length ball allowed Kohli to execute his trademark front foot drive through backward point and reach the century milestone when he was on 97*.
Although it may not have been one of Kohli’s most dominant centuries, it was certainly convincing. Once he got going, his century seemed inevitable, even after a slow start on Day 1, taking 21 balls to get off the mark.
Despite the West Indies bowlers not being as challenging as some other oppositions, the pitch was not the easiest to bat on, showing a bit of wear and offering some turn for spinners, as seen in Rohit Sharma’s dismissal. Nonetheless, Kohli’s patience, precise shot selection, and excellent judgment of lines and lengths led him to score his century with an impressive 95 percent of controlled shots, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. Though the bowling quality may not have been top-notch, Kohli’s batting demonstrated the highest quality.
Kohli’s perseverance and effort were evident in the 180 balls he faced to reach his century, and his celebration reflected the significance of the moment. Contrary to the aggressive celebrations seen in the early stages of his career, his milestone celebrations are now more muted.
Ending a 5-year wait in his 500th Int'l Game with a 💯
— FanCode (@FanCode) July 21, 2023
Just @imVkohli things!
.#INDvWIonFanCode #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/5j5td33iO2
Upon removing his helmet, Kohli embraced non-striker Ravindra Jadeja in a hug. He then acknowledged the cheering dressing room by bowing to them, and lastly, he kissed his wedding ring in a touching tribute.