Virat Kohli roared back to form with a remarkable century on Day 3 of the first Test against Australia in Perth. The 36-year-old batsman silenced critics with an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls, reaching the milestone with a boundary. Kohli’s century ended a 16-month drought, with his previous Test ton coming against the West Indies in July last year. His knock came under immense pressure following a poor series against New Zealand, where he scored just 93 runs across six innings, and mounting scrutiny over his form. Anushka Sharma Emotional as Virat Kohli Dedicates 30th Test Ton to Her.
Kohli entered the crease after Devdutt Padikkal’s dismissal for 25 and steadily built his innings, initially playing cautiously before accelerating with a flurry of boundaries. He completed his 30th Test century with eight fours and two sixes, showcasing his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion.
Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s wife, was present at the Optus Stadium to witness his incredible knock. She became emotional as Kohli celebrated his achievement and dedicated the milestone to her. A heartwarming video of Kohli waving to Anushka after reaching his century quickly went viral on social media, capturing the emotional moment.
India declared their second innings at 487-6 after Kohli reached his century, setting an imposing target with a 533-run lead. The declaration came late on Day 3, leaving Australia with a daunting task in the final stages of the match. Anushka Sharma Emotional as Virat Kohli Dedicates 30th Test Ton to Her.
Kohli’s innings is a significant comeback after years of inconsistent performances. He had managed only two Test centuries in the past five years and came into the series under scrutiny, especially following India’s humiliating 3-0 loss to New Zealand at home. Averaging just 15 in that series, Kohli’s place in the lineup had been questioned. However, his defiant performance in Perth reaffirmed his status as one of India’s finest.
The vintage century also reflected Kohli’s adaptability, as he built his innings with patience before taking charge. His return to form bolstered India’s dominance in the match and sent a strong message to critics about his enduring class and capability to perform under pressure. Anushka Sharma Emotional as Virat Kohli Dedicates 30th Test Ton to Her.
As India eyes victory with a massive lead, Kohli’s century remains the highlight of the match, celebrated not just for its significance on the field but also for the emotional connection it brought to fans and his loved ones.