In the illustrious realm of cricket, records are milestones, benchmarks etched in the annals of the sport. Virat Kohli, an icon in contemporary cricket, recently achieved a historic feat by surpassing 50 ODI centuries, a testament to his unparalleled prowess in the 50-over format. However, the monumental task ahead is daunting—surpassing Sachin Tendulkar record of 100 international centuries.
Brian Lara, a legend in his own right, acknowledges Virat Kohli’s cricketing prowess but remains skeptical about the daunting journey that lies ahead for the Indian maestro. At 35, Virat Kohli boasts an impressive tally of 80 centuries, needing 20 more to match Tendulkar’s record.
Yet, Lara, while lauding Kohli’s discipline and dedication, presents a pragmatic view.
“Age doesn’t stop for anyone. Virat Kohli will break many more records but 100 centuries seems the most difficult one,” expresses Lara, emphasizing the logical challenges cricketing reality presents. He questions the feasibility of Virat Kohli achieving the milestone, noting that such predictions often disregard cricketing logic.
Mission impossible for Virat Kohli?
In an exclusive conversation with Anandabazar Patrika, Lara offers insights into the statistical challenge facing Virat Kohli. To match Sachin Tendulkar, Kohli would need to maintain an unprecedented pace—scoring five centuries each year for the next four years. At 39, the age when this hypothetical pursuit concludes, the physical demands and unpredictabilities of cricket become more pronounced.
“Can’t say with certainty, no one can. Those saying Kohli will break Tendulkar’s 100-centuries record won’t be taking cricketing logic into account. 20 centuries seem a long way away. Most cricketers can’t score that in their entire career. I won’t be adventurous and say Virat Kohli will do it,” Lara said.
Lara, ever appreciative of Kohli’s commitment, declares, “Only Kohli can come close.” Yet, he refrains from making optimistic predictions, emphasizing the formidable nature of the task. Lara, a self-proclaimed fan of Virat Kohli, extends his best wishes while recognizing the unparalleled dedication Kohli brings to his craft.
The recent ODI World Cup showcased Kohli’s sublime form, accumulating 765 runs in 11 matches at an astonishing average of 95.62. While the narrative of him slowing down for milestones circulated, Lara dismisses such claims, attributing them to envy and stating, “Those saying all these are jealous of him. I have faced this too in my career.”
As the cricketing world witnesses Kohli’s relentless pursuit of greatness, Lara’s measured perspective adds a layer of realism to the ambitious quest for 100 international centuries, making it a story worth following in the years to come.
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