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Indian star Virat Kohli added another accolade to his illustrious career, reaching the 9000-run mark in Test cricket on Day 3 of the opening Test between India and New Zealand at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The seasoned batter hit his 31st Test fifty, achieving the milestone during India’s second innings.
Virat Kohli becomes slowest Indian to accomplish the feat
Kohli notched up 53 runs in the 42nd over, making him the fourth Indian player to surpass the 9000-run benchmark, alongside cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. However, Kohli reached this feat in 197 innings, making him the slowest among these Indian icons to do so. This knock also marked his first half-century in Test cricket this year, silencing doubts about his recent form and delivering just when India needed it most.
Slowest to reach 9000 runs for India
- Virat Kohli – 196 innings in 2024*
- Sunil Gavaskar – 192 innings in 1985
- Sachin Tendulkar – 179 innings in 2004
- Rahul Dravid – 176 innings in 2006
Bengaluru crowd thrilled by Kohli’s classic knock
The spectators at the Chinnaswamy Stadium were treated to a vintage Kohli performance. Coming to the crease at No. 3 after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early dismissal, Kohli initially struggled as it took him 14 balls to get off the mark, but once he settled, the runs started to flow. Partnering with Sarfaraz Khan, Kohli anchored India’s innings. While Sarfaraz adopted a more aggressive approach, Kohli played with poise, treating the crowd to some elegant cover drives and crisp shots down the ground. Each of his strokes was greeted with cheers, as fans delighted in seeing their hero back in form.
Also READ: IND vs NZ: Fans go crazy as Sarfaraz Khan hits his maiden hundred on Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test
Bouncing back after first-innings failure
Despite being dismissed for a duck in the first innings, Kohli showed his mettle as he led India’s efforts to chase down a significant 356-run deficit. Unfazed by his earlier setback, he batted with determination and grace, helping India recover and gain a solid footing. Though Kohli eventually got out for 70, his innings had laid a foundation, putting India in a more comfortable position as they aimed to secure a positive result in the Test.
Kohli’s latest achievement is a testament to his enduring quality and ability to perform under pressure, proving why he remains a key figure in India’s batting lineup.
