India’s new superstar batsman Virat Kohli once again was the hero with a swashbuckling 183 as they defeated Pakistan by six wickets in their One Day International clash at the Asia Cup.
Kohli smashed 22 boundaries and one six to put together a score of 183 off just 148 balls after coming in at number three, to help India chase down Pakistan’s score of 330 with 13 balls to spare.
The sensational knock was Kohli’s third century in four innings and further evidence that he is India’s next big thing as Sachin Tendulkar’s career whinds down in the wake of Rahul Dravid’s retirement.
Kohli said: “I still can’t believe what happened out there, honestly. I’m really satisfied. To be able to chase 330 against this bowling is satisfying.”
Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq was full of admiration and praise for Kohli after an innings he labelled the best he’d ever seen.
‘‘It was an excellent innings by Kohli - the best I have ever seen,’’ he said. ‘‘Credit goes to their batsmen. It’s easy out there under lights but 329 is still a good score.’’
Pakistan have qualified for the final of the Asia Cup, while the result gives India a chance of also playing in the decider. However if Bangladesh defeats Sri Lanka they will play in the final.