The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed the rise of numerous cricketing legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Amidst the galaxy of stars that have graced the tournament, few have shone as brightly as Virat Kohli, the epitome of modern-day batting excellence. With his sheer talent, unwavering determination, and unmatched hunger for success, Kohli has carved out a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts around the world.
This article takes a deep dive into the awe-inspiring centuries amassed by Virat Kohli throughout his IPL career, providing an all-encompassing overview of his remarkable journey. From his earliest exploits to his most recent accomplishments, we witness a batsman who has consistently defied the odds, rewriting the record books and redefining what it means to be a cricketing maestro.
1st in 2016 vs Gujarat Lions
During the 2016 IPL clash against the Gujarat Lions in Rajkot, Kohli achieved his maiden century in the tournament. Displaying remarkable batting prowess, he reached the milestone in just 63 deliveries, displaying an unbeaten 100 runs that included 11 boundaries and a six. Despite RCB’s unfortunate loss, Kohli’s exceptional performance earned him the well-deserved Man of the Match title.
2nd in 2016 vs Rising Pune Supergiants
In Bengaluru that same year, Kohli etched his name once again with his second IPL century, this time against the Rising Pune Supergiants. A masterclass innings saw him amass an unbeaten 108 runs in only 58 balls, including eight fours and seven maximums. Kohli’s outstanding display propelled RCB towards an easy victory, comfortably surpassing the target of 191 runs.
3rd in 2016 vs Gujarat Lions
During the same IPL season in Bengaluru, Kohli treated the crowd to yet another spectacular century against the Gujarat Lions. Displaying his dominance, he struck eight fours and five sixes on his way to an impressive 109 runs off just 55 deliveries. Kohli’s remarkable innings played a significant role in RCB’s awe-inspiring total of 248 runs, which remains the highest team score in IPL history.
4th in 2016 vs Punjab Kings
In a thrilling match against Kings XI Punjab in Bengaluru, now rechristened as Punjab Kings, Kohli unleashed his brilliance once more, achieving his fourth IPL century. With a breathtaking knock of 113 runs off a mere 50 balls, including 12 fours and 8 sixes, Kohli set a daunting target of 212 runs. RCB went on to secure a resounding victory with an 82-run margin, largely attributed to Kohli’s extraordinary performance.
5th in 2019 vs Kolkata Knight Riders
In a gripping encounter against the Kolkata Knight Riders in Kolkata, Kohli reached his fifth IPL century. Demonstrating his sheer class, he achieved an unbeaten 100 runs in just 58 balls, comprising nine fours and four sixes. Kohli’s innings proved instrumental in RCB’s success, further cementing his reputation as a formidable force in the tournament.
6th in 2023 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad
During Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in 2023, Virat Kohli produced a breathtaking performance, smashing a century in just 62 deliveries. This remarkable achievement marked his sixth century in the IPL, equalling his former teammate Chris Gayle for the most hundreds in the tournament.
7th in 2023 vs Gujrat Titans
Kohli’s outstanding performance against the Gujarat Titans proved pivotal for RCB as they fiercely contested a crucial qualifying match. This remarkable display catapulted him to the top of the list for the most centuries in IPL history, with an impressive tally of seven. Notably, he joins the elite ranks of Jos Buttler and Shikhar Dhawan as one of only three players to achieve consecutive centuries. Once again, Kohli, the maestro of significant encounters, demonstrates his remarkable ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches.
Kohli reached the milestone with a majestic flicked six over mid-on off the bowling of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Accompanied by the captaincy of Faf du Plessis, Kohli’s blazing innings, which included 12 fours and four sixes, formed a record-breaking partnership that practically sealed the game for RCB.
