Virat Kohli said he felt ‘blessed’ and ‘grateful’ after India ended their long-awaited international century with a victory over Afghanistan in the Asian Cup.
Hailed as one of the greatest players of his generation, Kohli has failed to reach triple figures in international cricket for nearly three years.
The 33-year-old shot 122 from 61 balls in Dubai on Thursday to dominate India with a 212-2 record against Afghanistan.
At batting out, Kohli shared a 119-run partnership with KL Rahul, going 4-for-12 and 6-for-6 innings.
In response, Afghanistan was 111-8, but a 101-run loss didn’t hurt much as both teams were already in the knockout stage and dead.
Halfway through, an emotional Kohli said: These two and a half years have taught me a lot.
“I put a lot of things into perspective, but it actually surprised me a bit because it was a format that I never expected to reach a century in the near future.
“I have worked hard and this was a special moment for me and for the team.”
After hitting the long-awaited 100, Kohli kissed her wedding ring and added: [his wife] Anushka [Sharma].
“This hundred is especially dedicated to him and our little daughter Wamika.”
Kohli toured India extensively before returning to the team for the Asian Cup.
Leaving, Kohli said: I am grateful for what God has given me.
“People were talking about how I didn’t make it to 100, but I saw what he had already given me, so I was very calm.
“After the break, I found myself mentally and physically exhausted. I think it was a blessing in disguise for me.
“I wanted to be the best version of myself for the team. When I got here and started playing at the net, I felt like the old rhythm was coming back. It was just about playing in the middle.”
Asked how he plans to celebrate his international 71st century, Kohli said: “I’ll be 34 in November, so celebrations are a thing of the past!”
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Source: Metro
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