Indian middle-order Virat Kohli proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest batters of all time after playing one of the most remarkable knocks against Pakistan during their Super Four clash in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, on Monday.
Kohli, 34, scored 122 runs off 94 balls courtesy of nine fours and three sixes and was named the Player of the Match for his heroics.
He scored his third one-day international (ODI) against arch-rivals Pakistan.
Kohli also built a 233-run partnership with KL Rahul — who also scored a century — which is the biggest in the Asia Cup history.
Not only that, but the 34-year-old also completed 13,000 runs in ODI cricket and became the fastest to do so in 267 innings, surpassing another Indian great Sachin Tendulkar, who did it in 321 innings.
Kohli talked in the post-match ceremony after receiving the Player of the Match award and he appreciated the Colombo ground staff, who worked tirelessly during the last two days with constant rain spells.
"A big shout out to the grounds-men from my side; I think they did a fabulous job,” he said.
"I always prepared my game in a way I can help the team. Today was a classic example of you don't get off to a good start. KL started better, I was trying to bring him on strike and playing second fiddle. And yes, then after that I stepped up where I could.
"I take a lot of pride in fitness. Pushing for doubles are easy runs, compared to a big shot. It has paid off before, hope to continue in the same way.
The middle-order batter then talked about India's encounter with Sri Lanka, which will be played on Tuesday just a few hours after today's encounter.
"Its the first time I have done anything like this in 15 years of cricket. Luckily we are Test players, so we know how to come back the next day and play. Recovery is crucial. It was humid out there today. I am 35 in November, so I need to take care of my recovery."
