"3.1%? Kohli says, 'Challenge accepted'" - Fans celebrate 2nd anniversary of Virat Kohli's 'Shot of the Century' against Haris Rauf
Team India's ace batter Virat Kohli played a clutch knock under tremendous pressure during the Men in Blue's 2022 T20 World Cup match against Pakistan on October 23, 2022. Chasing a tricky 160-run target in front of a packed Melbourne crowd, India had their back against the wall while reeling at 31/4 in 6.1 overs.
Kohli teamed up with Hardik Pandya to steer the ship out of the choppy waters for his team, forming a stunning 113-run partnership for the fifth wicket. The equation came down to 31 runs from the final 12 balls.
With the in-form speedster Haris Rauf bowling the penultimate over, Pakistan seemed to be in the driver's seat. However, Kohli had other plans. The seasoned campaigner sent the fifth ball over the fast bowler's head for a maximum.
Kohli's shot soon earned iconic status, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) declaring it the 'Shot of the Century'. The veteran batter followed it up with yet another six, playing a brilliant flick shot to clear the fine-leg fence.
India ultimately secured a four-wicket victory over their arch-rivals in the last-ball thriller. Two years after the memorable match, many fans took to social media, recalling Kohli's awe-inspiring shot.
Here are some of the top reactions:
Kohli's straight six is bound to be etched in the memories of ardent cricket fans for years to come. Many Indian supporters still seemed to be in awe of the 'Shot of the Century'.
"The greatest shot ever played in T20 cricket history!" – Virat Kohli's stunning six off Haris Rauf at MCG sent chills through the crowd and made history." wrote a fan.
"Thank you Virat Kohli for giving us one of our most cherished memories. Thank you for deciding to play cricket for India." commented another.
"This is peak cinema. Brilliance. The next shot was a wonderful reminder of the King's versatility." chimed in yet another.
Kohli remained unbeaten on 82 off 53 deliveries. His knock was laced with six fours and four maximum. The star batter's heroics helped India clinch a famous victory in the showpiece event.
"October 23rd 2022 will always be special in my heart" - Virat Kohli
Following India's thrilling win over Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli shared a post on the microblogging platform X to express his delight. He mentioned that he will forever cherish the day .
He wrote:
"October 23rd 2022 will always be special in my heart. Never felt energy like that in a cricket game before. What a blessed evening that was 💫🙏"
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli ended his T20I career with yet another special knock. He delivered a 76-run knock in the 2024 T20 World Cup final against South Africa, helping his team register 176/7 after 20 overs despite a dismal start.
The Rohit Sharma-led side ultimately secured a seven-run victory in the summit clash, ending India's 11-year ICC trophy drought. After the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, Kohli, Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirements from T20Is.