RKI Web Desk
Virat Kohli silenced critics with a masterful century against Australia on Sunday during the first Test in Perth. India declared their second innings at 487-6, setting an imposing target with a 533-run lead by day three’s close.
Kohli, 36, faced scrutiny over his form, having scored only two Test centuries in the last five years. A disappointing average of 15 in India’s recent 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand had fueled doubts about his place in the team.
Despite scoring just five runs in the first innings, Kohli staged a remarkable comeback. Batting after Devdutt Padikkal fell for 25, Kohli played cautiously before accelerating with a series of commanding boundaries. He reached his 30th Test century off 143 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes.
This was Kohli’s first Test hundred since July 2023, when he scored against the West Indies in Port of Spain. His performance leaves Australia facing an uphill battle to save the match.
India’s declaration emphasizes their intent to seize control, with Kohli’s knock reaffirming his position as a pivotal figure in the team.
