Virat Kohli Poised for Historic Century Hat-Trick in Visakhapatnam Showdown

Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli is set to make history in Visakhapatnam, aiming for his second ODI century hat-trick in a decisive match against South Africa. With a formidable record at the venue and closing in on 28,000 international runs, Kohli's performance could be transformative for the series.

The final One Day International between India and South Africa is slated for Visakhapatnam's Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, a venue that Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli finds particularly favorable. Kohli, already boasting 237 runs in the series, eyes a third consecutive century, which would position him uniquely in cricket's record books.

A century in this match would make Kohli the first Indian to achieve two ODI century hat-tricks, joining only Pakistan's Babar Azam in this exclusive club. Kohli's first hat-trick, scored against the West Indies in 2018 with impressive knocks of 140, 157*, and 107, left a lasting impact on the cricketing world. His legacy in Visakhapatnam is solidified with 587 runs amassed over seven innings, including three centuries.

Kohli's remarkable career sees him on the cusp of joining cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara by surpassing 28,000 international runs. As he returns to a city rich in personal achievement, he remains one of the sport's most consistent performers with 84 centuries and 144 fifties in 555 matches. India's squad, led by KL Rahul and featuring stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant, faces a South African team captained by Temba Bavuma, promising a gripping conclusion to the series.

(With inputs from agencies.)