Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking Century: Bright Spot in India's ODI Defeat

Despite India's series loss to New Zealand, Virat Kohli's explosive 124-run innings etched new records, reinforcing his pursuit of cricketing legend status. It marked his 85th international century and 54th in ODIs, highlighting his dominance and ambition to surpass Sachin Tendulkar's century milestone.

In the aftermath of India's struggle against New Zealand in the third ODI, cricket luminary Virat Kohli was observed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on Monday. Although the hope of victory slipped away, Kohli's formidable century provided a beacon of light, inspiring the Men in Blue and cricket aficionados alike by reaching several historic feats.

Kohli registered a magnificent 124 from 108 deliveries, including a polished array of 10 fours and three towering sixes. This feat notched his 85th international hundred, inching him closer to the cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar's illustrious record of 100 international tons. Furthermore, this was Kohli's 54th ODI century and his seventh against New Zealand, setting a new high for a batsman facing the Kiwis in ODIs. Additionally, his 10 centuries against New Zealand across all formats, inclusive of three in Tests, are unmatched by any batsman against them.

Kohli also overtook Australian cricket icon Ricky Ponting, who amassed 12,655 runs, for the record of most ODI runs at number three. In 244 matches at this pivotal position, he has accumulated 12,676 runs with an impressive average of 61.53, including 47 centuries and 67 half-centuries, with a personal best of 183. Despite Kohli's valiant efforts, New Zealand secured their inaugural ODI series win in India with a commendable 41-run victory in Indore, powered by centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips. Although Kohli's resilient partnership of 99 runs with Harshit Rana provided a glimmer of hope, New Zealand ultimately overcame the challenge to claim the series.

(With inputs from agencies.)