Virat Kohli: On the Brink of Breaking T20 International Centuries Record

Cricket fandom across the globe is often abuzz with statistics, records, and achievements. One of the most engaging aspects of the modern game is the race to establish and break milestones. Currently, all eyes are on Virat Kohli, the star Indian batter who is just three centuries shy of surpassing Pakistan’s Babar Azam for the second-most centuries in T20 cricket.

The Current T20 Century Landscape

As of now, Chris Gayle holds the record for the most centuries in T20 cricket with a staggering 22 centuries in just 45 innings—a feat that defines his explosive batting style. Following Gayle is Babar Azam with 11 centuries in 299 innings. Virat Kohli finds himself in third place, having registered 9 centuries in 382 innings.

Virat Kohli’s Performance

Kohli’s T20 performances have primarily been showcased through his tenure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has hit eight out of his nine T20 centuries. His only century outside the IPL came against Afghanistan during a T20 international in Dubai in 2022. The upcoming IPL season presents a significant opportunity for Kohli to not only close the gap on Azam but also potentially set his eyes on Gayle’s monumental achievement.

The Challenges Ahead

While Kohli is known for his remarkable consistency and has previously smashed four centuries in the iconic 2016 IPL season, achieving three centuries in a single season remains a challenging yet attainable goal. If he can replicate that form, he will likely surpass Babar Azam and secure the second position on this prestigious list.

Upcoming IPL Season and the Road Ahead

As the IPL 2025 season kicks off with Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) facing the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 22, the pressure and anticipation will mount. With Rajat Patidar now leading the RCB after the release of long-serving captain Faf du Plessis, the team’s dynamics will be different but could work in their favor. RCB is preparing intensively, having recently participated in practice sessions in Bengaluru and promotional events.

Babar Azam’s Performance

While Kohli aims to surpass Azam, it’s important to note that Babar, who has primarily excelled in franchise cricket, will also be looking to extend his record during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). His performance could either widen the gap or push Kohli further behind, adding an exciting competitive edge to the season.

T20 Cricket Statistics Breakdown

The table detailing the current standings in T20 centuries is as follows:

Conclusion

Virat Kohli is poised to shape his legacy further as he inches closer to breaking Babar Azam’s T20 century record. The upcoming IPL season will play a vital role in this narrative. The cricketing world waits with bated breath to see if he can channel his prolific past into future performances and set new records in T20 cricket. As these stalwarts compete for supremacy in the format, fans are treated to the kind of high-stakes drama that makes cricket so vitally compelling.