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[Watch] When Virat Kohli Brutalised Rabada, Ngidi & Co. With A Majestic 153 In Centurion

image-lqkyktx8Kohli's 153 still remains his best Test score in South Africa (x.com)

As the much-awaited Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion fast approaches, the spotlight intensifies on the talismanic Indian batter, Virat Kohli. His return to the side after the ODI World Cup adds an extra layer of excitement among his fans. Considering his stature and him being the most experienced player in the current Indian Test squad, Kohli's form with the bat will be crucial for India in South Africa.

Kohli's Test record in South Africa is remarkable, accumulating 719 runs in seven matches, including two centuries, boasting an average of 51.53. Among his 29 Test centuries, two have been crafted against the Proteas on their home turf, one in 2013 and another in 2018. 

The latter century holds particular significance as it came in Centurion, the venue for the upcoming first Test against South Africa. 

This memorable innings came in challenging circumstances against a top-quality South African bowling attack, further noteworthy as Kohli captained the side, leading by example with the bat.

The 2018 Centurion Test showed Kohli's class and ability to bat in tough circumstances. Facing a formidable South African attack, the Indian batters stumbled early, with KL Rahul scoring 10, Cheteshwar Pujara falling for a golden duck, and Murali Vijay departing after a promising 46. In this challenging scenario, Kohli rose to the occasion, contributing a stellar 153 off 217 balls, steering India to a commendable total of 307.

Early indications of Kohli's mastery came as he confidently drove Morne Morkel for consecutive boundaries, setting the stage for a daddy hundred. Unfortunately for India, despite Kohli's heroic efforts, South Africa went on to win that game by 135 runs.

Kohli's knock in Centurion revealed several notable aspects about his batting – evident intent, control over proceedings, match awareness, and aesthetically pleasing drives.