In a thrilling, it becomes an event to be remembered, but during the Test series between India and Australia at the Optus Stadium, Perth, Virat Kohli made history, but not in the way we have come to expect from the man, with the number plates something to behold. One of the most aggressive captains and batsmen in the cricket world, Kohli became a source of controversy for a record not linked to run-making.
On the second day of the play, Kohli had created yet another record by achieving 250 catches as a fielder in Test cricket in the shortest possible time of 157 matches beating South African great Jacques Kallis. This incredible achievement was achieved by Kohli in just 115 matches which clearly states his consistency and athletic capability.
The Catch That Made History
The memorable catch was taken in the 47th over of the Australian first test cricket when Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami short-pitched to Marnus Labuschagne. Kohli was positioned at a wide second slip, he stretched out his right hand to take an astonishing one-handed, full-length dive to take the international’s wicket. It became a highlight of the match and revealed Kohli’s quick footwork and incredibly fast-thinking ability.
Beyond Batting: Kohli’s Impact in the Field
Although most fans and critics rely more on batting achievements in Kohli’s career, this year’s achievement can also be rated as the exploits of the complete cricketer. batting and bowling are generally well-praised sectors and fielding is least thought to be a part of it, but Kohli’s addition in this sector is unseen. He has been India’s stalwart of the slip cordon, especially in overseas conditions, where fast bowlers relish their chance.
Reactions from the Cricketing World
The cricketing fraternity had not taken time to respond to the achievement by Kohli. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting tweeted:
‘Kohli is again showing that he can be a captain much beyond just a great batsman.’ This catch was fantastic. Well done for reaching 250 Test catches!”
The Match Context
Indian cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar also chimed in during the match analysis, describing the achievement as; ‘Well, this is indicative of how Kohli has been fitness- mentally and physically wise- over and above his rivals.’
Pretty catches like Kohli made high amphetamines to India as the team restricted the Aussies to 325 runs on the board in a lung-bursting first innings. While with the bat Kohli has not scored well in this match yet, his fielding contributions are still skyrocketing his team. Kuldeep’s role will only complement Kohli’s skills as India continues to struggle in their chase as the Test continues.
A Legacy Beyond Runs
One can include Virat Kohli as a fielder in his energetic history of spectacular matches for the Indian Cricket team. In a way, this readily underlines that Tendulkar’s achievements transcended the run-scoring prowess so evident in his statistics. It just makes people remember that in Test cricket wherein a single catch can change the complexion of the game, no player performs a vital role quite like Kohli plays an invaluable role in lifting their team’s performance.
The viewers will wait for Kohli’s next piece of genius either with the bat in hand, with the gloves on, or as a captain. One thing is certain: The Indian cricket king remains on the throne as the beholder of the new records as well as raising the bar higher with his magnificent performance not only limited to his excellent batting.
