King's Finest: Virat Kohli’s five greatest Test knocks

Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket: A look at some of his finest knocks for India in the longest format. (Photo: BCCI)

Virat Kohli didn’t just play Test cricket; he elevated it. Across 123 matches, his blade danced with fire, purpose and an insatiable hunger to conquer every condition, every bowling attack. As the curtains come down on a magnificent red-ball career, we revisit five knocks that defined Kohli the Test titan.

141 vs Australia, Adelaide (2014)

Kohli’s first Test as captain began with the weight of legacy and the ghost of Phillip Hughes hovering over Adelaide Oval. In pursuit of a steep fourth-innings target of 364, Kohli played an audacious innings that was part classical, part defiant. With exquisite cover drives and fearless pulls, his 141 stood as a lone beacon in a narrow defeat. It was a captain announcing himself with bravery and brilliance.

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149 vs England, Edgbaston (2018)

This was Kohli versus England. Kohli versus the ghosts of 2014. And he exorcised them all. Walking in at 54 for 2, Kohli single-handedly shepherded the innings while wickets crumbled around him. His 149 was a statement of dominance, grit and maturity against Anderson and company on a spicy pitch. It wasn’t just a hundred, it was a redemption arc crafted in real time.

254* vs South Africa, Pune (2019)

If Kohli had doubters, this was his answer in decibels. A masterclass in patience, precision and authority. The knock was a lesson in batting marathon. 336 balls of chanceless brilliance. What made it special? No sixes, no theatrics, just pure, relentless accumulation. Captain Kohli batted South Africa into submission and walked off undefeated, proving you don’t need to sledge when your bat roars.

153 vs South Africa, Centurion (2018)

A lone warrior’s act. On a treacherous SuperSport Park pitch, India’s batting collapsed, all but Kohli. His 153 was a mix of grit and genius, combining traditional technique with fierce competitiveness. Against Rabada, Morkel and Ngidi in peak form, Kohli stood tall, refusing to blink. It wasn’t enough to win the Test, but it won hearts and respect globally.

116 vs Australia, Perth (2018)

Australia’s fortress. A lively Perth track. Fiery pace. And Kohli at his absolute best. This hundred was less flamboyant and more primal. He left well, defended late, attacked selectively the hallmark of a batter in complete control. Though India lost the Test, Kohli’s ton was unanimously hailed as one of his most technically proficient efforts overseas.

Virat Kohli’s Test journey wasn’t just decorated with runs. It was layered with context, character and courage. He leaves the scene as a true great of the longer format.