The word ‘superstar’ is not enough to describe Virat Kohli

The legendary Indian batsman produced another magical innings to defeat rivals Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, writes Jack Rathborn

Virat Kohli of India celebrates winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan at Melbourne Cricket Ground (Getty)

Virat Kohli is special, an innovator in the one-day format and an immense player. The word “superstar” perhaps underplays his mesmeric influence across the sport and India.

On the biggest stage at the T20 World Cup, in one of the game’s most iconic venues – the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – Kohli stood tall in one of sport’s most legendary rivalries.

There were 90,293 in attendance, but many more will claim to have witnessed Kohli’s masterful innings and this breathtaking contest for years to come.

The shimmer of the lights in the darkness across Melbourne, the sweet sound of willow clattering into leather. Millions watched live and on screens around the world as the players scrambled to locate a ball sent into orbit.

Often the media is guilty of overhyping the product, lauding a performance beyond its worth, but the MCG – given a stunning blue and green filter for the evening – delivered a spectacle of immense quality and entertainment.

With each swipe of the blade and ball crushed beyond the ropes, Kohli chipped away at Pakistan’s target of 160, doing what all legendary players do: gradually snatching hope from his opponents.

Even with a mere eight balls remaining, with 28 required, there was no panic. The 33-year-old’s magical collection of strokes included a gentle rock backwards before viciously driving Haris Rauf for six more, prompting pandemonium in the stands.

“Until today, I have always said Mohali was my best innings, against Australia [in the 2016 T20 World Cup]. I got 82 off 51 then, today I got 82 off 53, so they are the same innings,” Kohli said.

“But I will count this one higher because of the magnitude of the game and the situation. Standing here I just feel like it was meant to be, it’s a very, very special moment.”

So often we gather in expectation, the teams and players assembled on the world’s greatest stages. All too often, we leave disappointed.

Kohli delivered. Others will surely be inspired to replicate his magic.

Yours,

Jack Rathborn

Assistant sports editor