In the world of cricket, few names resonate as powerfully as Virat Kohli. The Indian cricket maestro, renowned for his extraordinary batting skills, has once again made headlines with a commanding century in the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Yet, despite his recent triumph, Kohli has often found himself under the microscope of critics and fans alike, especially when his performance doesn't culminate in a century.

The scrutiny intensified following India's previous Test series against New Zealand, where Kohli managed just 93 runs over six innings. This dip in form raised questions about his place in the team, with speculation swirling about his potential exclusion from the red-ball squad if he failed to deliver in Australia. The pressure was palpable, and India ultimately lost the series.

However, Kohli's resilience and mental fortitude have shone through, allowing him to bounce back in spectacular fashion. Former Indian cricket legend, Sunil Gavaskar, has drawn parallels between Kohli's situation and that of tennis icons Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. Gavaskar points out that, much like these tennis greats, Kohli is often unfairly judged when his performances fall short of perfection.

"I mentioned that Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafa Nadal are celebrated winners. Yet when they exit in the semi-finals, the narrative shifts to them being out of form. Meanwhile, other players reaching the same stage receive praise," Gavaskar remarked. "The same is true for Virat Kohli. We've become accustomed to his centuries in international cricket, and when he scores 70-80, which many players would celebrate, he's criticized for not being in form."

Gavaskar's observations highlight a broader issue in sports fandom, where expectations for elite athletes often border on the unrealistic. For Kohli, a score of 70-80 is seen as underwhelming, despite it being a commendable achievement for most players. This relentless pressure is a testament to Kohli's high standards and the legacy he has built over the years.

As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy continues, Kohli's return to form is a promising sign for India. His ability to silence critics with his bat speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the sport. It is a reminder that even the greatest athletes face challenges and that their journey is as much about overcoming adversity as it is about celebrating success.

In conclusion, while Kohli may be targeted during lean phases, his recent performances reaffirm his status as one of cricket's all-time greats. His journey continues to inspire millions, proving that true champions rise above the noise to let their achievements do the talking.