Kohli’s Overseas Century Hunt: A Test of Skills And Perseverance

New Delhi, 17th July 2023: After breaking his century drought in Test cricket earlier this year with a magnificent 186 against Australia in Ahmedabad, Virat Kohli is now determined to overcome another challenge – scoring a hundred in an overseas Test.

Since his last century in an away Test against Australia in Perth in December 2018, Kohli has played 19 Tests abroad without reaching the milestone. Although he has scored centuries in all three formats in the past year, the elusive overseas Test century has remained a significant target for the Indian cricket captain.

India’s batting coach, Vikram Rathour, acknowledged that Kohli’s impressive form had endured for nearly nine years before facing this lean phase. Rathour believes that it was natural to experience a slump after such an extended period of consistent performance. Additionally, he pointed out that three of the five years without an overseas century coincided with the challenges brought on by the Covid pandemic, resulting in limited game opportunities and various restrictions.

However, Rathour remains optimistic about Kohli’s abilities and adaptability as a batsman. He praised Kohli for his capacity to adjust his game according to different conditions and the team’s requirements. The 34-year-old’s aggressive approach to batting, combined with his ability to switch gears when needed, makes him a formidable player. Rathour emphasized that Kohli’s willingness to alter his approach was exemplified in the recent series opener against the West Indies, where he showcased a defensive game when the spinners were dominating the pitch.

Rathour sees Kohli’s performance as an excellent example for younger players, demonstrating how to handle challenging conditions and opposition bowlers. Despite the century drought in overseas Tests, Rathour remains confident that a well-deserved century for Kohli is on the horizon due to his exceptional form and adaptability.

In conclusion, the Indian cricket fraternity eagerly anticipates Virat Kohli’s return to century-scoring ways in overseas Tests, considering his exceptional skills, experience, and determination to excel in all formats of the game.