Virat Kohli: The Only Indian and Second Ever Captain to Score Centuries in Both Innings on Test Debut

Representing one’s country in cricket is a dream for many players. For cricketers in India, being a captain means becoming the team’s voice and face. It’s an honor, but it comes with challenges, especially in Test cricket. Captains must manage field placements, bowling changes, and overall strategies, often leaving little time to focus on their own game.

One standout captain is Virat Kohli. He led India from 2014 to 2022 and transformed the team’s standing in international cricket. Under his leadership, India climbed from the seventh to the number one spot in the ICC rankings. Kohli is known as India’s most successful Test captain, racking up 40 wins in 68 matches. His aggressive style and determination made a lasting impact.

Kohli’s journey began after the legendary MS Dhoni stepped down from Test cricket during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2014. Many wondered if Kohli was ready for this significant role. He quickly proved he was. Kohli changes the approach to Test cricket in India, favoring five specialist bowlers over a more traditional lineup, even if it meant a compromise in batting strength.

Kohli inspired his teammates, pushing them to improve their fitness and embrace a competitive spirit. His memorable pep talk during the final day of a test against England in 2021, where he told the team to “let them feel hell,” embodied his leadership style.

A noteworthy achievement is that Kohli became the first Indian captain to score centuries in both innings of a Test match on his debut. Only one other captain, Australia’s Greg Chappell, has matched this feat. On his debut, Kohli faced Mitchell Johnson’s bouncer on the first ball and still managed to score a century, silencing his doubters.

His first match as captain showed a new direction for Indian cricket. Instead of aiming for a draw, Kohli urged his team to chase a daunting target of 363 runs. Although India lost that match by 48 runs, the mindset shift was significant.

Kohli’s tenure saw India dominate at home, losing just two Tests and winning every series played there. His leadership helped India succeed abroad as well, securing a historic Test series win in Australia and winning seven matches in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia). Before Kohli, no Indian captain had won more than three matches in those nations.

With an impressive average of 54.80, Kohli scored 5,864 runs, including his highest score of 254 against South Africa in 2019. His legacy leaves a profound mark on Indian cricket, not just for his records but for the aggressive, winning mentality he instilled in his team.

Kohli’s journey mirrors the changing landscape of cricket, where aggressive play and fitness have become essential. As cricket continues to evolve, his impact will be felt for generations, inspiring upcoming cricketers to chase their dreams with the same determination.



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