'He Will Break Many More Records But...': Brian Lara on Kohli's Quest For 100 Centuries
Virat Kohli currently has 80 international centuries
Ace Indian batter, Virat Kohli recently surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 ODI centuries. Kohli achieved this remarkable feat during the World Cup 2023, where he played an outstanding 117-run knock against New Zealand in the semi-final, marking his 50th century in the 50-over format. This milestone has reignited discussions and speculations about Kohli's potential to match, or even surpass, Tendulkar's incredible record of 100 international centuries.
Brian Lara weighs in on Virat Kohli's pursuit of 100 centuries
However, Kohli, now 35 years old, faces a challenging path ahead in his quest for this historic achievement. Currently, with 80 international hundreds to his name, he needs 20 more to reach Tendulkar's record. The upcoming cricket schedule presents a significant hurdle, as India is slated to play only 5 ODIs in the next year.
Additionally, Kohli's future in T20I cricket remains uncertain, especially since he has not participated in a T20I match since India's loss to England in the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final. Consequently, Kohli's opportunities to reach the century mark largely hinge on his performance in Test matches, a challenging prospect even for a player of his calibre.
While speaking to Anandabazar Patrika, former West Indies captain Brian Lara, acknowledging the enormity of the task, shared his insights on Kohli's pursuit. Lara noted that scoring 20 more centuries is a huge challenge, especially considering Kohli's age.
He explained that even if Kohli managed to score five centuries each year, it would still take him four years to equal Tendulkar's record, by which time he would be 39.
“How old is Kohli now? 35, right? He has 80 but still needs 20. If he scores five centuries every year he’d need four more years to equal Tendulkar. Kohli will be 39 then. Tough job, very tough job. “Can’t say with certainty, no one can. Those saying Kohli will break Tendulkar’s 100-centuries record won’t be taking cricketing logic into account. 20 centuries seem a long way away,” said Lara.
Lara further stated that scoring 100 international centuries is an extraordinary feat that seems unlikely for Kohli, given the current circumstances. He pointed out that most cricketers don't manage to score 20 centuries in their entire careers, let alone in the latter stages of it.
“Most cricketers can’t score that in their entire career. I won’t be adventurous and say Kohli will do it. Age doesn’t stop for anyone. Kohli will break many more records but 100 centuries seems the most difficult one,” added the West Indian stalwart.
Despite this, Lara expressed his best wishes for Kohli and his admiration for the Indian batsman's commitment and dedication to the sport.
“Only Kohli can come close. I’m a big fan of his discipline and dedication. The way he prepares for a match by giving it his all… how can you not be his fan. My best wishes are with him. I’d be very happy if he could score 100 centuries like Tendulkar. Sachin was a dear friend and like I said before, I’m a big fan of Kohli,” concluded Lara.
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