Virat Kohli’s Top 5 Test Hundreds – Ranked by Impact

When we talk about modern-day legends in cricket, Virat Kohli stands tall. Known for his aggression, passion, and unmatched consistency, Kohli has carved a legacy in the red-ball format that will be remembered for generations. Over the years, he has not only piled up hundreds but also played innings that changed the course of matches—and sometimes entire series.

But not all centuries are created equal. Some shine brighter than others, not just for the numbers but for their impact—on the match, the series, and Kohli’s career itself. In this post, we’ll dive into Virat Kohli’s Top 5 Test Hundreds – ranked by impact, focusing on the innings that left a mark far beyond the scoreboard.

1. 149 vs England at Edgbaston, 2018

Match Context: India’s tour of England had often been a painful chapter in Kohli’s otherwise sparkling career. In 2014, he averaged just 13.4 in five Tests. But in 2018, he returned to England with a point to prove.

The Knock: In tough swinging conditions against a world-class attack led by James Anderson, Kohli stood tall and scored 149 runs out of India’s total of 274. He single-handedly kept India in the game while others faltered around him.

Why It Ranks #1: This century was more than just runs—it was redemption. Kohli silenced critics, conquered his past demons in England, and established himself as the undisputed king of modern Test cricket. Despite India losing the match, Kohli’s hundred was a masterclass in patience, determination, and technical brilliance.

2. 141 vs Australia at Adelaide, 2014

Match Context: Kohli’s first Test as captain came in challenging circumstances, with India chasing 364 in the fourth innings against Australia. Most teams would have gone for a draw—but not under Kohli.

The Knock: He scored 141 off just 175 balls, taking the attack to the Aussies with fearless strokeplay. His intent nearly pulled off a historic chase before India collapsed in the final hour.

Why It Ranks #2: This was the innings that introduced the world to Kohli the Test captain. His aggression, belief in victory, and willingness to lead from the front became hallmarks of his leadership. This knock also set the tone for a new era in Indian cricket—fearless, aggressive, and uncompromising.

3. 167 vs England at Visakhapatnam, 2016

Match Context: The 2016 England tour of India was a highly anticipated series. After drawing the first Test in Rajkot, India needed a statement at Vizag.

The Knock: Kohli scored a commanding 167 runs in the first innings, laying the foundation for a massive total. India went on to win the Test by 246 runs and took firm control of the series.

Why It Ranks #3: This was Kohli at his peak—flawless in technique, aggressive in intent, and ruthless in execution. The innings broke England’s spirit and turned the tide of the entire series. It was also part of a stunning home season where Kohli dominated like few ever have.

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4. 200 vs West Indies at North Sound, 2016

Match Context: India’s tour of the West Indies was expected to be a cakewalk, but Kohli wanted to make a personal statement.

The Knock: Kohli’s 200 was his first double century in Tests, and it came in dominant fashion. He stitched crucial partnerships and showed great maturity, pacing the innings with precision.

Why It Ranks #4: This century was a turning point in Kohli’s career as a Test batter. It opened the floodgates for four more double centuries over the next year. While it wasn’t under high-pressure conditions, its impact lies in how it evolved Kohli into a marathon scorer, capable of big knocks.

5. 123 vs Australia at Perth, 2018

Match Context: India had won the first Test in Adelaide and came into Perth looking to assert their dominance. On a lively pitch with extra bounce, Australia’s bowlers were in full rhythm.

The Knock: Kohli battled hard to score 123 in the first innings. With minimal support from the other end, he tackled the hostile Aussie bowling with courage and class.

Why It Ranks #5: While India lost the match, Kohli’s century was an exhibition of grit and shot selection under pressure. It reminded everyone why he was one of the best in the world. His duel with the Aussie pacers made for one of the most thrilling passages in recent Test history.

Honourable Mentions

• 119 vs South Africa at Johannesburg (2013) – His first overseas century in testing conditions.
  
  

• 103 vs England at Trent Bridge (2018) – Helped set up a rare Indian Test win in England.
  
  

• 254 vs South Africa at Pune (2019)* – Kohli’s highest Test score; pure dominance at home.
  
  

• 107 vs Australia at Melbourne (2014) – A follow-up century in the same series where he got 141 at Adelaide.
  
  

What Makes a Kohli Century Special?

A Kohli hundred is not just about statistics. It’s about:

• Timing: He often scores when the team needs it most.
  
  

• Intent: His aggression pushes the game forward, forcing results.
  
  

• Adaptability: Whether it’s swing in England or bounce in Australia, Kohli adjusts quickly.
  
  

• Fitness and Focus: His ability to convert starts into big scores is rooted in supreme discipline.
  
  

Each century tells a story of resilience, character, and a burning desire to win for India.

Conclusion

When ranking Virat Kohli’s Top 5 Test Hundreds – ranked by impact, it’s clear that the value of a century isn’t just in numbers. It’s in the pressure of the moment, the quality of the opposition, and how much it influenced the outcome of a match or series. Kohli’s greatness lies not only in how many runs he scored, but when and how he scored them.

From Edgbaston to Adelaide, from Vizag to Perth, Kohli has painted unforgettable masterpieces on the Test canvas. As he continues his journey in red-ball cricket, fans can only hope for more such unforgettable knocks that blend style, strength, and sheer willpower.

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