Virat Kohli’s 54th ODI Century: A Record-Breaking Masterclass in a Losing Cause

Virat Kohli keeps taking giant strides: Records India’s run-machine set in IND vs NZ ODIs

On a bittersweet Sunday in Indore, amidst the disappointment of a series loss, one man’s bat painted a masterpiece of pure, unadulterated class. Virat Kohli, with a magnificent 124 off just 108 balls, delivered his 54th ODI century—a knock that was both a lone warrior’s battle and a historic milestone that cemented his legacy as a true giant of the game .

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The Record-Breaking Innings: What Made It Historic?

Kohli’s 124 wasn’t just another century. It was a performance that rewrote the history books on multiple fronts. In a losing cause, his innings stood as a testament to his unwavering focus and ability to perform under pressure . This knock was his 54th ODI century, further extending his own world record in the format .

But the records didn’t stop there. This was also his 85th international century across all formats, a staggering number that places him in a league of his own . His consistency and longevity at the highest level continue to defy logic and inspire a generation of cricketers.

Virat Kohli 54th ODI century and His Dominance Over New Zealand

New Zealand has long been a favorite opponent for Kohli to unleash his best. His latest ton was his 7th ODI century against the Kiwis, making him the batter with the most hundreds against them in the format, surpassing legends like Ricky Ponting and Virender Sehwag .

When you look at his record across all formats, the dominance is even more pronounced. Kohli now boasts a remarkable 10 international centuries against New Zealand—a tally that includes three in Tests and seven in ODIs . This incredible feat makes him the only player to have scored 10 or more centuries against five different nations (Australia, Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa, and New Zealand) .

King of the Number 3 Spot: A Legacy Cemented

Perhaps the most significant record from this innings was one that had been looming for a while. With his runs in Indore, Kohli officially became the highest run-scorer at the No. 3 batting position in ODI history. He surpassed the legendary Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who had held the record with 12,655 runs .

Kohli’s total now stands at an astonishing 12,676 runs at No. 3 in ODIs . This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a redefinition of what’s possible from that crucial position in the modern game. He has turned the No. 3 spot into his personal fortress, a place where he builds innings, anchors the chase, and demoralizes bowling attacks with his relentless accumulation and calculated aggression .

Why This Century Matters Beyond the Numbers

In the context of the match, Kohli’s century was a valiant effort in a team that struggled to find its rhythm. While the rest of the batting order faltered, he stood tall, showcasing the mental fortitude that has defined his career . It was a reminder that even in defeat, individual excellence can be a beacon of hope and a source of immense pride for fans.

For aspiring cricketers and fans alike, this innings is a masterclass in batting technique, temperament, and shot selection. It’s a practical example of how to build a big score against a quality attack. You can explore more about the technical aspects of his batting in our detailed analysis on [INTERNAL_LINK:virat-kohli-batting-technique].

Moreover, this performance comes at a time when questions about longevity and form are often asked of veteran players. Kohli’s answer is always the same: let his bat do the talking. His consistent brilliance is a key asset for India as they look ahead to future ICC events .

Conclusion: The Undimmed Brilliance of Kohli

Virat Kohli’s 54th ODI century was more than just a personal milestone; it was a historical event that added new, glittering chapters to his already legendary career. From becoming the undisputed king of the No. 3 spot to solidifying his status as New Zealand’s most formidable foe, his records speak volumes. Even in a losing cause, his brilliance remains undimmed, a constant source of awe and admiration for cricket lovers around the world.

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