Virat Kohli sends Gautam Gambhir a strong message with stunning century on Vijay Hazare Trophy return
Virat Kohli Makes Memorable Comeback with Century in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Former Team India captain Virat Kohli made a stunning return to domestic cricket by smashing a century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 match against Andhra in Bengaluru on December 24. The right-handed batsman, who was playing in the 50-over tournament after a hiatus of nearly 15 years, once again displayed his class with the bat.
Impressive Performance in Vijay Hazare Trophy Match
Delhi won the toss and elected to bowl first at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. They managed to restrict Andhra Pradesh to 298 for 8 wickets. Ricky Bhui was the standout performer for Andhra with a magnificent knock of 122 off 105 balls, while Shaik Rasheed contributed 31 runs. Delhi’s Simarjeet Singh shone with the ball, finishing with figures of 5 for 54.
Chasing a target of 299, Virat Kohli came out to bat in the very first over. He started his innings positively, hitting two boundaries early on and quickly reaching 10 runs from just 5 balls. Kohli looked in control at the crease, displaying a fine mix of composure and aggression.
Kohli then went on to form a crucial 113-run partnership with Priyansh Arya for the second wicket. Arya played the role of the aggressor, scoring 74 runs off 44 balls, which included seven fours and five sixes.
Record-Breaking Performance by Kohli
Virat Kohli continued to bat with authority even after Arya’s dismissal and eventually reached a well-deserved century. This marked his 58th century in List A cricket, making a remarkable comeback in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Kohli now has the second-most List A centuries in history, behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar who has 60 centuries to his name. It is worth noting that 53 of Kohli’s 58 List A centuries have come in international cricket.
Before this game, Kohli had only played 18 matches for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, with his last appearance in the tournament dating back to February 18, 2010. He led Delhi against Services in Gurgaon and scored 16 runs in a crucial victory.
During his innings in Bengaluru, Kohli also achieved another milestone by surpassing 1,000 runs for Delhi in List A cricket. The 37-year-old cricketer is scheduled to play one more match in the tournament before the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
Fastest Player to Reach 16,000 Runs in List A Cricket
In a remarkable feat, Virat Kohli became the fastest player to score 16,000 runs in List A cricket, achieving the milestone in just 330 innings. He broke the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar, who took 391 innings to reach the mark. Kohli is now only the second Indian player to surpass the 16,000-run mark in List A cricket.
Virat Kohli’s exceptional performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Andhra has not only impressed fans but has also showcased his enduring class and skill with the bat.
Virat Kohli’s Impact on Domestic Cricket
Virat Kohli’s return to domestic cricket has brought a renewed sense of excitement to the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His presence in the tournament has not only drawn attention from fans and media but has also inspired young cricketers to witness his masterclass firsthand. Kohli’s commitment to playing domestic cricket despite his international commitments highlights his dedication to the game and his desire to continually improve his skills.
His performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Andhra showcases the importance of experienced players participating in domestic tournaments. Kohli’s presence adds prestige to the competition and provides aspiring cricketers with an opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game. His ability to adapt to different formats and excel under pressure serves as a valuable lesson for budding cricketers looking to make their mark in the sport.
The Evolution of Virat Kohli’s Game
Virat Kohli’s century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy marks a significant milestone in his career, demonstrating his growth and evolution as a cricketer. Over the years, Kohli has honed his skills, developed new techniques, and refined his approach to batting, making him one of the most consistent and prolific run-scorers in modern cricket.
His ability to adapt to different conditions, formats, and challenges speaks volumes about his cricketing acumen and determination to succeed. Kohli’s innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy not only reaffirms his status as a world-class batsman but also underscores his resilience and passion for the game.
Virat Kohli’s Contribution to Indian Cricket
Virat Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket transcends his individual performances on the field. As a former captain and a veteran player, Kohli has played a pivotal role in shaping the current generation of Indian cricketers. His work ethic, leadership qualities, and commitment to excellence have set a high standard for players to emulate.
By participating in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kohli sets an example for aspiring cricketers on the importance of continuous learning, improvement, and dedication to the game. His influence extends beyond the boundaries of the cricket field, inspiring a new wave of talent and instilling a sense of pride and passion in the sport.
The Legacy of Virat Kohli
As Virat Kohli continues to write new chapters in his illustrious career, his legacy in Indian cricket becomes more profound. His records, achievements, and accolades serve as a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to excellence. Kohli’s impact on the game will be felt for generations to come, inspiring young cricketers to dream big, work hard, and strive for greatness.
With each milestone and century, Kohli cements his place among the pantheon of cricketing legends, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and etching his name in the annals of history. His journey from a young prodigy to a seasoned veteran is a story of perseverance, passion, and unparalleled skill, making him a true icon of Indian cricket.
By exploring Virat Kohli’s influence on domestic cricket, his evolution as a player, his contribution to Indian cricket, and his lasting legacy, we gain a deeper appreciation for his remarkable journey and enduring impact on the sport.


