Virat Kohli’s 30th Test century on November 24, 2024, in Perth stood out for multiple reasons—his temperament, match awareness, and discipline. The day began with Kohli finding his rhythm again, particularly with his trademark swat-flick shot, which had been missing in recent times. This was a sign that it could be his day, and he soon demonstrated why.
Kohli’s century was not just about individual brilliance; it was also about his awareness of the bigger picture. With India at a crucial juncture, Kohli’s composed knock steadied the ship after India lost a few quick wickets, including that of Rishabh Pant. His disciplined innings allowed India to declare at the right time, leaving Australia with a challenging task ahead.
This hundred, Kohli’s seventh in Australia, put him ahead of Sachin Tendulkar as the Indian with the most Test centuries on Australian soil. His knock was a display of his mental fortitude, particularly in a challenging phase where the pitch was offering variable bounce. Kohli’s ability to read the match situation was key; he played with patience, grinding out runs without compromising on his style. His knock was reminiscent of an ODI, where he was intent on accumulating runs while setting up a declaration to put pressure on the Aussies.
In the stands, even the Australian crowd couldn’t help but appreciate Kohli’s skills and determination. His performance, marked by precision and purpose, was a testament to his experience, and it was celebrated not just by Indian fans but also by the Australians who admired his fierce competitiveness and skill. Kohli’s innings underscored his presence in a match where patience and composure were paramount, demonstrating why he remains one of the game’s greats.
