Virat Kohli Test Double Centuries List

Introduction

Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the modern era. Known for his aggressive yet elegant batting style, Kohli has achieved numerous milestones in his illustrious career. One of the standout features of his Test career is his ability to convert centuries into double centuries. This article delves into the list of Virat Kohli’s Test double centuries, analyzing each innings and its significance in the context of his career and Indian cricket.

Virat Kohli Test Career

Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in June 2011 against the West Indies. Over the years, he has established himself as a cornerstone of Indian batting, renowned for his technical prowess, mental toughness, and relentless drive for excellence. Kohli’s journey from a promising young talent to a global cricket icon has been marked by numerous match-winning performances and record-breaking feats.

List of Virat Kohli Test Double Centuries

As of the latest records, Virat Kohli has scored seven double centuries in Test cricket. Each of these innings showcases his ability to dominate the opposition and play long, impactful innings. Here is a detailed look at each of these double centuries:

1. 200 vs. West Indies – Antigua, July 2016

Match Details:

• Venue: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua
• Series: India tour of West Indies, 2016
• Result: India won by an innings and 92 runs

Innings Highlights: Kohli’s first double century came against the West Indies in July 2016. Batting first, India was in a strong position when Kohli walked in. Displaying immense concentration and technical finesse, Kohli scored 200 off 283 balls, including 24 boundaries. His innings helped India post a mammoth total of 566/8 declared, setting the stage for a comprehensive victory.

Significance: This double century was a milestone in Kohli’s career, as it marked his transition from a prolific run-scorer to a player capable of playing marathon innings. It also underscored his ability to lead from the front, as he was the captain of the team at that time.

2. 211 vs. New Zealand – Indore, October 2016

Match Details:

• Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
• Series: New Zealand tour of India, 2016
• Result: India won by 321 runs

Innings Highlights: Kohli’s second double century came against New Zealand in Indore. Winning the toss and batting first, India relied heavily on their captain. Kohli scored a magnificent 211 off 366 balls, featuring 20 boundaries. His partnership with Ajinkya Rahane, who also scored a century, helped India declare at 557/5.

Significance: This innings reinforced Kohli’s ability to play the anchor role and build substantial partnerships. It was also a testament to his fitness and stamina, batting for long hours in challenging conditions.

3. 235 vs. England – Mumbai, December 2016

Match Details:

• Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Series: England tour of India, 2016
• Result: India won by an innings and 36 runs

Innings Highlights: Kohli’s highest score in Test cricket, 235, came against England in Mumbai. Batting third, after England posted 400, Kohli played a captain’s knock, taking India to 631. His innings included 25 fours and a six, demonstrating his command over the bowling attack.

Significance: This double century was crucial as it came in a high-stakes series against England, a formidable opponent. It was also a statement of intent, showcasing Kohli’s dominance in home conditions.

4. 204 vs. Bangladesh – Hyderabad, February 2017

Match Details:

• Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
• Series: Bangladesh tour of India, 2017
• Result: India won by 208 runs

Innings Highlights: Facing Bangladesh, Kohli scored a brilliant 204, his fourth double century in just over six months. His innings was marked by fluid stroke play and relentless aggression, hitting 24 fours during his 246-ball stay.

Significance: This innings highlighted Kohli’s consistency and hunger for big scores. It also underscored his ability to perform against all opponents, irrespective of their ranking.

5. 213 vs. Sri Lanka – Nagpur, November 2017

Match Details:

• Venue: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur
• Series: Sri Lanka tour of India, 2017
• Result: India won by an innings and 239 runs

Innings Highlights: Kohli’s fifth double century came against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. Leading from the front, he scored 213 off 267 balls, anchoring India’s total of 610/6 declared. His innings was a mix of patience and aggression, featuring 17 fours and 2 sixes.

Significance: This double century was part of a phase where Kohli was in sublime form, regularly converting his starts into big scores. It further solidified his reputation as one of the best batsmen in the world.

6. 243 vs. Sri Lanka – Delhi, December 2017

Match Details:

• Venue: Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi
• Series: Sri Lanka tour of India, 2017
• Result: Drawn

Innings Highlights: Just a few weeks after his Nagpur double century, Kohli scored 243 against Sri Lanka in Delhi. His innings was a masterclass in concentration and skill, lasting 287 balls and including 25 boundaries.

Significance: This innings was significant not only for its sheer volume but also for the circumstances under which it was played. The match was marred by poor air quality, yet Kohli’s focus and determination remained unshaken.

7. 254 vs. South Africa – Pune, October 2019

Match Details:

• Venue: Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune
• Series: South Africa tour of India, 2019
• Result: India won by an innings and 137 runs

Innings Highlights: Kohli’s unbeaten 254 against South Africa in Pune is his highest score in Test cricket. Batting first, Kohli’s marathon innings was the backbone of India’s massive total of 601/5 declared. He faced 336 balls and hit 33 fours and 2 sixes.

Significance: This double century was a testament to Kohli’s evolution as a player who could adapt his game to different situations and formats. His ability to bat for long periods and score at a brisk pace was on full display.

Analyzing Virat Kohli Double Centuries

Conversion Rate

One of the remarkable aspects of Kohli’s Test career is his conversion rate of hundreds into double hundreds. This ability to go past the 200-run mark consistently sets him apart from many other great batsmen. His mental strength, focus, and physical fitness contribute significantly to his ability to play long innings.

Leadership and Performance

Kohli’s double centuries often came during his captaincy, highlighting his ability to lead by example. His performances have been pivotal in setting up matches for India, either by putting up imposing totals or by rescuing the team from precarious positions.

Versatility Across Conditions

Kohli’s double centuries have come against a variety of opponents and in different conditions. Whether playing in the subcontinent or against teams like England and South Africa, his adaptability and skill have shone through. This versatility is a hallmark of his greatness.

Impact on Team Success

Each of Kohli’s double centuries has significantly impacted the outcome of the match, often leading to an Indian victory or putting the team in a commanding position. His ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships has been crucial for India’s success in Test cricket.

• Virat Kohli’s list of double centuries in Test cricket is a testament to his exceptional talent, hard work, and dedication.
• These innings not only highlight his prowess as a batsman but also underscore his importance to the Indian cricket team.

As he continues to play, fans and cricket pundits alike eagerly anticipate more such monumental innings from this modern-day cricketing legend. Kohli’s double centuries will undoubtedly remain a significant part of his legacy and a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers around the world.

Virat Kohli Test Double Centuries Compared to Other Cricketers

Don Bradman

Don Bradman, often regarded as the greatest batsman of all time, scored 12 double centuries in Test cricket, the most by any player. Bradman’s average of 99.94 in Test cricket remains unmatched. His ability to consistently score big was unparalleled, making his record of 12 double centuries a benchmark for all future cricketers.

Comparison:

• Volume: Bradman leads with 12 double centuries compared to Kohli’s seven.
• Era and Conditions: Bradman played in an era with uncovered pitches and against formidable bowling attacks without modern protective gear, highlighting the extraordinary nature of his achievements.

Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara, the Sri Lankan batting maestro, scored 11 double centuries in his illustrious career. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to build long innings, Sangakkara’s double centuries were instrumental in many of Sri Lanka’s successes in Test cricket.

Comparison:

• Volume: Sangakkara’s 11 double centuries surpass Kohli’s tally.
• Playing Style: Both players share a similar ability to play long innings and build substantial scores, although Sangakkara’s double centuries are more in number.

Brian Lara

Brian Lara, the West Indian legend, is renowned for his monumental innings, including the highest individual score in a Test match (400*). Lara scored nine double centuries in Test cricket, often playing marathon innings that demoralized bowling attacks.

Comparison:

• Volume: Lara’s nine double centuries exceed Kohli’s seven.
• Impact: Lara’s ability to play marathon innings and score big runs is comparable to Kohli’s penchant for converting centuries into double centuries.

Wally Hammond

Wally Hammond, one of England’s greatest batsmen, scored seven double centuries in Test cricket. Known for his classical technique and prolific run-scoring, Hammond’s double centuries played a crucial role in England’s cricketing history.

Comparison:

• Volume: Kohli matches Hammond’s record of seven double centuries.
• Era and Technique: Hammond played in an earlier era, and his classical technique and success against formidable bowlers draw parallels with Kohli’s modern-day excellence.

Virender Sehwag

Virender Sehwag, one of the most destructive openers in cricket history, scored six double centuries in Test cricket. Sehwag’s aggressive batting style and ability to score at a brisk pace often put India in commanding positions.

Comparison:

• Volume: Kohli surpasses Sehwag’s six double centuries.
• Batting Style: Sehwag’s aggressive approach contrasts with Kohli’s more calculated and classical style, yet both have been highly effective in their eras.

Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar, the “Master Blaster,” scored six double centuries in his illustrious career. Tendulkar’s consistency and longevity set him apart, making him one of the most revered figures in cricket history.

Comparison:

• Volume: Kohli surpasses Tendulkar’s six double centuries.
• Legacy: While Tendulkar’s overall impact on cricket is immense, Kohli’s record of double centuries is a notable achievement in comparison to his idol.

FAQs

How many double centuries has Virat Kohli scored in Test cricket?

As of now, Virat Kohli has scored seven double centuries in Test cricket.

When did Virat Kohli score his first double century in Test cricket?

Virat Kohli scored his first double century on July 21, 2016, against the West Indies in Antigua. He made 200 runs off 283 balls.

Which team has Virat Kohli scored the most double centuries against?

Virat Kohli has scored the most double centuries (two each) against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Test cricket.

What is Virat Kohli’s highest score in Test cricket?

Virat Kohli’s highest score in Test cricket is 254* (not out), which he achieved against South Africa in Pune on October 10, 2019.

How many double centuries has Virat Kohli scored as the captain of the Indian team?

Virat Kohli scored all seven of his Test double centuries while serving as the captain of the Indian cricket team.