OTD: One year ago, Virat Kohli scored iconic 82* against Pakistan at MCG in T20 World Cup
Many consider this innings to be Virat Kohli's finest knock of his career.
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Oct 23, 2023 1:14 pm
On this memorable day in 2022, cricket fans around the world were treated to a spectacle at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as India clashed with arch-rivals Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. It was an evening charged with anticipation, and the stage was set for a gripping encounter. What transpired was a cricketing story that will be etched in the annals of history, as Virat Kohli, the modern titan of Indian cricket, led his team to a remarkable victory.
An iconic 82* from Virat Kohli in a roller coaster 🎢 encounter at the MCG powered #TeamIndia to a memorable win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 👏🏻👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/nv2TK4rgKM
Virat Kohli, often hailed as ‘King Kohli’ by his ardent followers, was faced with a daunting task. The Indian team found themselves in a precarious position, with the scorecard reading 31 for 4, while the target of 160 seemed like a distant dream. However, Kohli, living up to his moniker of ‘Chase Master,’ displayed his extraordinary skills and determination, guiding the batting order through this treacherous path.
Virat Kohli chasing glory with India!
Kohli found a crucial ally in Hardik Pandya, who played a vital role by contributing 40 runs from 37 balls. The duo’s partnership of 113 runs for the fifth wicket breathed life into India’s pursuit. A defining moment in the game arrived during the 19th over when Kohli unleashed back-to-back sixes off Haris Rauf’s deliveries, affirming his status as one of the world’s premier chasers, a sentiment echoed by Indian team captain Rohit Sharma. Unfortunately, Pandya’s innings was cut short as he was caught off Mohammed Nawaz’s bowling on the last ball of the 19th over.
(Source: Twitter)
With just 14 runs required off three balls, a lifeline came for the Indian team. A no-ball was declared after Nawaz delivered an unjustified full toss that was dispatched for a six. India regained their footing, and after Dinesh Karthik’s dismissal, Ravichandran Ashwin played a pivotal role by securing a crucial boundary. The MCG resonated with chants of ‘Chak De India’ as Kohli, acknowledging the crowd’s support, celebrated India’s supremacy on the global stage.
The start of the innings had been anything but stable, with top-order batsmen like KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav departing without making substantial contributions. It was then that Kohli and Pandya took it upon themselves to anchor the chase. Both, nurtured by the wisdom of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, understood the dynamics of a T20 chase and the importance of pacing the innings.
Chase Master at His Best: Kohli Leads India to Victory at MCG!
Kohli, in a post-match interview, reflected on his innings, stating, “Till today, I have always said Mohali was my best innings, against Australia: I got 82 off (51). Today I got 82 off 53. So they are the same innings, but I think today I will count this one higher because of the magnitude of the game and what the situation was.”
As the final ball was bowled, Kohli stood unbeaten with 82 runs from 53 balls, and Ravi Ashwin clinched the winning run, igniting jubilant celebrations among Indian fans. Reflecting on the chase, Kohli emphasized the importance of experience and clarity in such situations, and he revelled in the challenge.
Rohit Sharma lauded Kohli’s exceptional performance, describing it as one of India’s best knocks, given the challenging circumstances. Kohli’s breathtaking innings, marked by his ability to chase down a formidable target, left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
.@imVkohli, it was undoubtedly the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long on was spectacular! 😮 Keep it going. 👍 #INDvPAK#T20WorldCuppic.twitter.com/FakWPrStMg
In the end, it was a victory that showcased the indomitable spirit of Indian cricket and the brilliance of ‘King Kohli.’ The match will be remembered as a testament to Kohli’s extraordinary skill, determination, and ability to thrive under pressure, making it a defining moment in T20 cricket history.
