In 2016, Virat Kohli led the Indian cricket team to a resounding 3-0 Test series victory over New Zealand. During the second Test in Kolkata, Kohli etched his name in history by scoring his highest Test score against the Kiwis – a magnificent double century.
The Indian innings got off to a shaky start as openers Gautam Gambhir and Murali Vijay departed early, leaving the team at 60/2. However, Kohli, batting at number four, steadied the ship with a crucial partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (43).
Kohli then joined forces with Ajinkya Rahane, and the duo forged a mammoth 365-run stand, the highest partnership for India in Tests against New Zealand. Kohli played aggressively against the likes of Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner, and Matt Henry, amassing 211 runs with 20 fours. Rahane, too, contributed handsomely with 188 runs, including 18 fours and 4 sixes.
Rohit Sharma’s quickfire half-century after Kohli’s dismissal helped India post a formidable 557/5 before declaring. New Zealand’s response was promising initially, but they collapsed after losing their first wicket at 118. Ashwin wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming six wickets as the Kiwis were bowled out for 299.
In India’s second innings, Pujara’s century ensured a solid score of 216/3 before another declaration. New Zealand faced an even more daunting task in the fourth innings and were bundled out for 153, handing India a comprehensive victory.
Ashwin was adjudged Player of the Match for his match-winning performance, while Kohli received the ICC Test Championship mace, a testament to his exceptional batting throughout the series.
