Anatomy of Kohli's 113*: Shot-by-Shot Breakdown of the Masterclass
Virat Kohli's 113 not out against Delhi Capitals was an innings for the ages. We break down each phase and the mindset behind one of the IPL's all-time great knocks.
Virat Kohli walked in at the fall of the first wicket with RCB under pressure at 10/1 in the second over. What followed over the next 62 balls was a masterclass in building an innings under pressure.
Phase 1: The Anchor (Balls 1-15)
Kohli played entirely in the V in the first 15 balls. Strike rate of 80, but zero risk. He played himself in while Maxwell attacked at the other end.
Phase 2: The Acceleration (Balls 16-40)
The transition was imperceptible. From ball 16 onwards, Kohli's strike rate jumped to 155. He targeted the leg-side consistently, using his powerful flick and pull to devastating effect.
Phase 3: The Carnage (Balls 41-62)
The final 22 balls produced 68 runs. Five sixes. Seven fours. The DC captain tried everything — pace changes, different angles, a leg-spin gamble — but nothing could stop the avalanche.