The Dominance of Virat Kohli: Crowning the Record-Breaking Test Century Score Ace

Virat Kohli, India's beloved captain and one of the greatest batsmen of this generation, has shattered records both in domestic and international cricket. He holds the record for the most double centuries in Test cricket since 2016, with a total of 7 impressive scores under his belt.

The Double Century Achievements

A double century, or 200 runs in a single inning, is a feat that only a handful of cricket stars can achieve. For India, this feat is even more rare as, before Kohli, the previous record holders among Indian captains was Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, each with 6 double centuries.

Kohli's List of Double Hundreds

200 vs West Indies, Antigua, 2016 211 vs New Zealand, Indore, 2016 235 vs England, Mumbai, 2016 204 vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad, 2017 213 vs Sri Lanka, Nagpur, 2017 243 vs Sri Lanka, Delhi, 2018 254 vs South Africa, Pune, 2019

Of particular note is Kohli's highest individual score in Test cricket, where he surpassed his own record of 243 against Sri Lanka at his home ground in Delhi in 2017/18. His achievement brings the total of double centuries scored by Indian captains to 11, with seven of these being Kohli's own.

Raw Talent Versus Record Setting

While Kohli has achieved these feats, it's also important to note the context of the players who came before him. Sachin Tendulkar, a legendary batsman, holds the previous record of 6 double centuries, which were achieved in Tests. Virender Sehwag, another notable player, scored his first six double centuries in Test cricket in 2009. Before Sehwag, Rahul Dravid held the record with his fifth double century in 2004, breaking the previous record of Jagmohan Dalmiya's fourth double century in 1984 against West Indies.

Historical Context

Furthermore, there have only been a couple of Indian players with more than two double centuries. M. H. Mankad achieved this feat in 1955-56, and Dilip Sardesai scored his second double century during the West Indies tour in 1971, when Dravid was making his Test debut.

Statistical Overview

Comparing these achievements with contemporary players, Kohli currently stands fourth on the list of most double centuries in Test cricket. Only Don Bradman, Kumar Sangakkara, and Brian Lara have achieved more, with 12, 11, and 9 double centuries respectively. Wally Hammond and Mahela Jayawardene also share the seventh position with Kohli, each having seven double centuries to their name.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli's 7 double century scores not only cement his historical legacy but also set a new benchmark for future generations of cricket players. His talent, fortitude, and longevity in the sport have made a significant impact on Indian and international cricket, making him a household name and an iconic figure in the cricketing world.