Virat Kohli Reflects on a Tearful Return to Form After Two-Year Century Drought

Currently competing in the second Test of the three-match series against New Zealand in Pune, Virat Kohli recently opened up about one of the most poignant moments of his career. After a long wait to break his century drought, he found himself in tears while speaking to his wife, Anushka Sharma, after scoring a remarkable knock in September 2022.

At 35 years old, Kohli has amassed an impressive 80 centuries in international cricket, placing him second on the all-time list, just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who holds 100. Kohli's last Test century had come against Bangladesh in Kolkata back in November 2019, leading to a three-year wait before he finally crossed the three-digit mark again.

The breakthrough came on September 22, 2022, during the Asia Cup match against Afghanistan in Dubai, where he scored an unbeaten 122 runs off just 61 deliveries. In a heartfelt conversation with Jatin Sapru, Kohli recounted the emotional moment, stating, “When I spoke to Anushka, I was in tears. But when I completed my hundred, I laughed a lot. I had been crying about this for two years.”

During that memorable Super 4 clash against Afghanistan, Kohli hit 12 fours and six sixes, helping India post a formidable 212/2. KL Rahul also contributed significantly with a brisk 62 runs off 41 balls. Afghanistan, in response, struggled, finishing at 118/8, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivering an outstanding performance of 5 wickets for just 4 runs.

Kohli dedicated his innings to Anushka and their daughter, Vamika, acknowledging the emotional toll of his journey. “I’ve been through a lot, and one person who helps me put everything in perspective is Anushka Sharma,” he shared.