Virat Kohli Shatters Record, Overtakes Babar Azam with Most T20 Half-Centuries Batting First
In a breathtaking display of batting prowess, Virat Kohli, the talisman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has etched his name in the history books by setting a new record for the most half-centuries while batting first in T20 cricket. The Indian cricketing superstar surpassed Pakistan’s Babar Azam during a high-octane IPL clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Kohli’s milestone came with a scintillating knock of 70 runs off just 42 balls, peppered with eight boundaries and two towering sixes, boasting an electrifying strike rate of 166.67. This innings marked his first home half-century of the IPL 2023 season, a significant turnaround after managing just 30 runs across his initial three home outings. With this knock, Kohli registered his 62nd T20 fifty while batting first, edging past Babar’s tally of 61 to claim the top spot.
Interestingly, Kohli’s innings came to an end at the hands of RR’s pace spearhead Jofra Archer, who dismissed him for the first time in T20 cricket. Before this encounter, Kohli had dominated Archer, amassing 103 runs off 80 balls across 11 innings against the bowler, at a strike rate of 128.75, including 12 fours and three sixes. This dismissal added a new chapter to their fascinating rivalry.
Kohli’s form in IPL 2023 has been nothing short of sensational. With this latest knock, he climbed to second place in the Orange Cap standings, accumulating 392 runs in nine matches at a staggering average of 65.33 and a strike rate of 144.11. His season tally includes five half-centuries, with a best of 73 not out, underlining his consistency and hunger for runs.
Reflecting on the match dynamics, RR won the toss and opted to bowl first, setting the stage for RCB’s batting fireworks. Kohli anchored the innings with a solid 61-run opening partnership alongside Phil Salt, who contributed 26 off 23 balls. He then forged a match-defining 95-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal, who played a blistering knock of 50 off 27 deliveries. Late cameos from Tim David (23* off 15) and Jitesh Sharma (20* off 10) propelled RCB to a formidable total of 205/5. For RR, Sandeep Sharma (2/45) and Jofra Archer (1/33) were the standout bowlers, though they couldn’t prevent RCB from posting a challenging score.
Kohli’s record-breaking feat is yet another feather in the cap of a player who continues to redefine excellence in cricket. As one of the modern greats with over 7,000 IPL runs and a legacy of leading RCB with unparalleled passion, his hunger for milestones remains insatiable. This achievement not only highlights his adaptability in T20 cricket but also cements his status as a global batting icon, inspiring millions around the world.
As the IPL 2023 season progresses, all eyes will be on Kohli to see if he can maintain this momentum and guide RCB to their elusive maiden title. Can the King of Cricket continue to rewrite records and dominate bowlers with his unmatched skill? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Virat Kohli is far from done.