Virat Kohli Birthday: Top 5 Kohli knocks in Away Tests

#3 119 vs South Africa – Johannesburg (2013)

This 119 against a quality pace attack was a mature innings.

India’s tour to South Africa in 2013 was their first away Test series in 18 months. They had lost 8 overseas Tests in a row. After a poor ODI series (where they lost 2-0), India were looking for a turnaround with a relatively inexperienced side. This was India’s first Test without Sachin Tendulkar.

After opting to bat first after winning the toss, India found themselves under pressure as they lost both their openers in the first hour and the score read 24/2. Virat Kohli who took the No. 4 spot walked out to bat.

Facing an attack comprising of Dale Steyn Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander, Kohli relished the challenge and found his groove early as he timed the ball sweetly throughout.

Kohli went on to score a majestic 119 as he put India into the driver’s seat on the first day. His innings showcased why I think he is the right man to take the Master’s legacy forward at No. 4.