England Vs India 2018 1st Test - Virender Sehwag Lauds Virat Kohli For Brilliant Century

Thanks to a superlative century from India’s batting machine Virat Kohli, the visitors put on a competitive show at the opening Test at Birmingham. With the rest of the batting wilting away without much of a fight, it was King Kohli, who reigned supreme on a profusely challenging day. His knock was so special, that it prompted former batting legend Virender Sehwag to praise him in his own way.

The Knock:

Coming in after his side was in a spot of bother after losing two quick wickets, Kohli was in his groove right away. Leaving deliveries outside the off stump with tremendous caution, the India captain displayed a great sense of control.

His battle against England’s bowling ace James Anderson was the highlight of the day, as he curbed his aggressive instincts to counter the brilliance of Anderson. Despite getting a life as Dawid Malan dropped his catch in the slips, Kohli made his start count, leading the charge for his team.

Batting Throughout:

The best part about Kohli’s knock was the fact that he batted throughout and scored a major chunk of his runs with the tail. The lower middle order did assist him a bit as Hardik Pandya got his eye in before throwing it away.

However, it was Kohli’s superb aggression post getting to the three figure mark, which eventually stood out. Kohli seemed to be like a completely different player, to the 2014 version of his. Shedding all his inner demons, Kohli reigned supreme, dominating the English bowlers.

The Tweet:

A brilliant hundred from Kohli. Scored more in this first innings than he did in 10 innings in 2014. Added 99 so far with Shami, Ishant and Yadav , who have scored 8 between them. #ENGIND pic.twitter.com/POeNkl9Oip

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 2, 2018

Kohli’s knock of 149 was so impactful, that England just got a lead of 13 runs. Virender Sehwag was in complete awe of Kohli as he posted a Tweet, congratulating the Indian captain. “A brilliant hundred from Kohli. Scored more in this first innings than he did in 10 innings in 2014. Added  99 so far with Shami, Ishant and Yadav , who have scored 8 between them. #ENGIND,” wrote Sehwag.

What Next:

Thanks to Kohli’s ton, India remain in the game and it is now up to the bowlers to make a mark.