Virat Kohli Surpasses Tendulkar, Slams Ton, Praises Anushka

PERTH, (ANI) – Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli etched his name into the record books once again during Day 3 of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth on November 24. While his remarkable 81st international century took center stage, Kohli also surpassed his idol, Sachin Tendulkar, in a significant fielding milestone, becoming India’s third-highest catcher in Test cricket history.

Kohli claimed his 116th Test catch, eclipsing Tendulkar’s tally of 115. The historic moment came when Mohammed Siraj forced an edge from Australian skipper Pat Cummins, with Kohli stationed at second slip. With this feat, Kohli trails only Rahul Dravid, who holds the Indian record with 210 Test catches, and VVS Laxman, who occupies second place with 135 catches.

Later in the day, Kohli dazzled with the bat, scoring a commanding unbeaten 100 off 143 balls, featuring eight fours and two sixes, at a strike rate of 69.93. The century was his 30th in Test cricket and marked a triumphant return to form, ending a 500-day drought in the longest format. His innings further cemented his legacy as one of India’s greatest visiting batters in Australia.

Speaking after his milestone, Kohli dedicated his century to his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, crediting her unwavering support during his lean patch. “Anushka has been right by my side through thick and thin. She knows everything that goes on behind the scenes, what goes on in the head when you don’t play as well… It feels amazing, and the fact that she is here makes it more special,” Kohli said.

With his 81st international ton, Kohli continues his chase of Tendulkar’s unparalleled record of 100 international centuries. Across 119 Test matches, Kohli has amassed 9,145 runs at an average of 48.13, with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, including a career-best score of 254 not out.