Virat Kohli’s Classic Century Under Pressure: On Sunday, January 18, 2026, during the 3rd ODI of the New Zealand tour of India at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest batters of the modern era. Chasing a massive target of 338 runs, India were under serious pressure when Kohli stepped up with a brilliant century.
Batting with calm and control, Kohli reached his hundred in 91 balls, scoring 100 runs with 8 fours and 2 sixes. At a time when wickets kept falling at the other end, Kohli held the innings together and kept India’s hopes alive in a difficult run chase.
This was not just another hundred — it was a knock built on experience, patience, and perfect shot selection.
Key Records Achieved with This Century
Kohli’s knock in Indore added several important milestones to his legendary career:
| Record | Achievement |
|---|---|
| ODI Centuries | 54th ODI hundred |
| ODI 50+ scores vs New Zealand | 17 (most by any batter) |
| ODI Career 50s | 78th ODI fifty-plus score |
| Centuries in pressure chases | Among the highest in ODI history |
This century further strengthened Kohli’s reputation as the “chase master”, especially in high-scoring games where the required run rate is above 10 runs per over.
Match Situation: Kohli Fighting a Lone Battle
When Kohli reached his century, India were 230/6 in 40 overs, still needing 108 runs from 60 balls. Despite New Zealand being ahead in the game, the Indore crowd rose to its feet to applaud Kohli’s effort.
India had lost key batters early, but Kohli formed fighting partnerships with Nitish Kumar Reddy and later Harshit Rana, ensuring the contest remained alive deep into the innings. His ability to switch gears, hit boundaries at the right time, and rotate strike showed his unmatched game awareness.
Read more: Virat Kohli vs New Zealand ODI Records & Stats
This hundred was special because it came:
- Against a strong New Zealand bowling attack
- In a must-win, series-deciding match
- While chasing a 300+ total on a pressure pitch
Even as New Zealand remained favorites in the match situation, Kohli’s innings reminded everyone that as long as he is at the crease, India always has hope.
Once again, Virat Kohli didn’t just score runs — he delivered belief, leadership, and a masterclass in ODI batting.
