Let's start by saying that nobody could have played a better innings than Virat Kohli did yesterday, not even Sachin Tendulkar, AB de Villiers, or Viv Richards. The crowd rose in unison to honour him at the moment of the two runs that took him to 100. Tendulkar himself was one of them, and he appeared to be almost as happy as Kohli. Richards was there in the media centre, lying low, and he was unable to stop admiring Kohli's wristy power throughout his leg-side play and his dance down the pitch to Tim Southee, which set up the most amazing stroke over wide long-on for six. In the 1984 film Richards' 189 at Old Trafford, he acts in a manner reminiscent of Bob Willis, with the same result. It takes a lot to render a bowler of this quality powerless.
Kohli first jumped and hit the air before bending down and removing his gloves and helmet. Then, very slowly, he rose, raising both arms in acknowledgment to friends, family, and the entire home, as if he were a god awakening to the light of the morning. Standing next to Tendulkar, David Beckham was applauding passionately and smiling as big as Garfield. Actually, David needs to get out more. What a wonderful creature this cricket is.
Ten days ago, when Kohli scored his 49th century in one-day international cricket, it was a privilege for me to be on the mike. This matched the entire quantity. This was the same as Tendulkar's total, despite the fact that Kohli's total is based on many less innings. The arrival of number 49 at Eden Gardens, where the exuberant throng could not restrain themselves, was entertaining. Not me either. I have always loved it. My statement that Kohli is a man who writes his own scripts may sound cliche in sports commentary, but it is actually very true given the perfectly timed nature of his accomplishments.
He flew past Tendulkar yesterday, leaving him by alone at the top. Harsha Bhogle exclaimed on air, "Say it gently. Fifty one-day international hundreds!" His extraordinary accomplishment distinguishes him from every other player in a game that originated in English county cricket.
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