Virat Kohli's top 5 ODI knocks in Sri Lanka
One of the most prolific and consistent batsmen in modern cricket, Virat Kohli has often been the cornerstone of India's success in One Day Internationals (ODIs). His ability to perform under pressure, coupled with his aggressive yet calculated approach to batting, has made him a standout player in various high-stakes matches.
Across several memorable ODIs, Kohli has not only accumulated runs but has done so at impressive strike rates, cementing his reputation as a match-winner.
India are all set to face Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series beginning tomorrow, following their triumph in the T20I series. The former India skipper has always had successful outings in Sri Lanka and has a phenomenal record while playing there, particularly in the ODI format.
Ahead of the upcoming three-match one-day series, here are five best knocks of Virat in the format in Sri Lanka.
Virat Kohli's top 5 ODI knocks in Sri Lanka
#5 Sri Lanka vs India, 1st ODI at Dambulla, August 20, 2017
In the first ODI of India's tour of Sri Lanka in 2017, India secured a dominant nine-wicket victory. Chasing a target of 217 set by Sri Lanka, India's batting lineup displayed remarkable efficiency. While Shikhar Dhawan was the star of the match with an unbeaten 132 off 90 balls, Virat Kohli played an equally crucial role.
Kohli remained not out, scoring 82 runs off 70 balls with 10 boundaries and a six, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 117.14. His partnership with Dhawan, which saw them put on 197 runs together, ensured India reached the target in just 28.5 overs.
Kohli's performance was a blend of aggression and control, underscoring his ability to chase down targets with ease while setting the stage for a successful series for India.
#4 Sri Lanka vs India, 5th ODI at Colombo, September 3, 2017
In the fifth ODI on September 3, 2017, Sri Lanka batted first and were all out for 238 in 49.4 overs. Lahiru Thirimanne scored 67 off 102 balls while Angelo Mathews added 55 off 98 balls.
Chasing 239, India reached the target in 46.3 overs with a score of 239/4. Virat Kohli played a crucial role, scoring an unbeaten 110 off 116 balls, including nine fours, with a strike rate of 94.82.
Kedar Jadhav supported him with 63 off 73 balls. Kohli’s steady and composed innings guided India to a six-wicket victory with 21 balls remaining.
#3 India vs Pakistan, 9th Match, Super Four at Colombo, Asia Cup, September 10, 2023
During the Asia Cup match on September 10, 2023, India faced Pakistan in the Super Four stage. India posted an imposing total of 356/2 in their 50 overs, thanks to stellar performances from Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.
Kohli remained unbeaten with 122 off 94 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes, with a strike rate of 129.79.
In response, Pakistan was bowled out for 128 in 32 overs, with Fakhar Zaman top-scoring with 27. India triumphed with a massive margin of 228 runs. Kohli's aggressive and unbeaten century was instrumental in setting the high target and he was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
#2 Sri Lanka vs India, 4th ODI at Colombo, July 31, 2012
The fourth ODI between Sri Lanka and India on July 31, 2012, saw Sri Lanka scoring 251/8 in their 50 overs, with Upul Tharanga and Lahiru Thirimanne making notable contributions of 51 and 47 runs, respectively.
India, chasing 252, reached the target comfortably in 42.2 overs, finishing at 255/4. Virat Kohli played a remarkable innings, scoring an unbeaten 128 off 119 balls, which included 12 fours and one six, with a strike rate of 107.56.
Kohli's masterful innings anchored India's chase, leading to a six-wicket victory with 46 balls to spare. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
#1 Sri Lanka vs India, 4th ODI at Colombo, August 31, 2017
In the fourth ODI between Sri Lanka and India, held on August 31, 2017, India set a formidable target by scoring 375/5 in 50 overs. This massive total was powered by Virat Kohli’s brilliant knock of 131 off 96 balls, featuring 17 fours and two sixes, with a strike rate of 136.45.
In response, Sri Lanka managed to score only 207, getting all out in 42.4 overs. Angelo Mathews was the top scorer for Sri Lanka with 70 runs off 80 balls. India secured a commanding victory by 168 runs.
Virat Kohli's performance was pivotal, earning him the Player of the Match award for his crucial century.