Indian batter Virat Kohli is one of the greatest batters in the current generation, known for his consistency, technical brilliance, and ability to perform under pressure across all formats of the game. With numerous records to his name, including multiple centuries in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, Kohli has been a key pillar of India’s batting lineup. His aggressive mindset, exceptional fitness, and leadership qualities have made him a modern-day cricketing icon, inspiring millions of fans worldwide.
The legendary cricketer started his career in domestic cricket, representing Delhi in the Ranji Trophy for the first time in 2006. He first gained national recognition when he led India’s U-19 team to victory in the 2008 ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup. His consistent performances for Delhi paved the way for his selection in the Indian national team, where he made his ODI debut in 2008. Since then, Kohli has established himself as one of the greatest batters of his generation, excelling across all formats of the game.
Here’s a list of Virat Kohli’s top five highest scores in first-class cricket:
1: 197 vs SNGPL (Nissar Trophy, 2008)
Indian middle-order batter Virat Kohli has scored the highest score of 197 runs off 274 balls, including 29 fours and one six. The Nissar Trophy was a match played between the domestic champions of India and Pakistan. In 2008, Delhi, the Ranji Trophy winners, faced Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), Pakistan’s Quaid-e-Azam Trophy champions.
Kohli played a sensational knock of 197 runs in the second innings, helping Delhi fight back in the match. However, the match ended in a draw, and SNGPL won on the first-inning lead. This inning showcased Kohli’s temperament and skill at a young age.
2: 173 vs Bengal (Ranji Trophy, 2010)
Indian greatest batter Virat Kohli has scored a scintillating knock of 173 runs from 267 balls, including 24 fours and one six. In the 2010 Ranji Trophy season, Delhi faced Bengal in a crucial match. Delhi managed to score 459 runs in response to Bengal’s 473 runs in the first inning. The match ended up in a draw.
Playing a match-winning knock, Kohli scored 173 runs, helping Delhi post a strong total. His innings were filled with elegant cover drives and flicks, proving his dominance in domestic cricket before fully establishing himself in the Indian team.
3: 169 vs Karnataka (Ranji Trophy, 2007)
Right-handed batter Virat Kohli played a pivotal knock of 169 runs off 311 balls, including 25 fours and one six. This match was part of Kohli’s early domestic career when he was trying to break into the national setup.
At just 18 years old, Kohli displayed maturity beyond his age by scoring 169 runs against a strong Karnataka bowling attack. This inning played a crucial role in shaping his career as a dependable middle-order batter for the Indian side.
4: 145 vs Uttar Pradesh (Ranji Trophy, 2009)
In the 2009 Ranji Trophy clash between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, youngster Virat Kohli played an impactful knock of 145 runs in 173 balls, scoring 22 fours. Uttar Pradesh dominated the first inning by declaring for a massive total of 536 runs. The team restricted Delhi in their first inning for a score of just 202.
Virat Kohli scored 145 runs, displaying his ability to play long innings in pressure situations. His innings helped Delhi build a big total. His century reduced the deficit for Delhi, but they were unable to seal the match. Kohli’s innings included calculated risks and counter-attacks against UP’s disciplined bowling lineup.
5: 139 vs Tamil Nadu (Ranji Trophy, 2010)
Indian batter Virat Kohli played a magnificent knock of 139 runs from 267 balls, including 12 fours and 4 sixes. In this match, the Indian batter played on number 3 for Delhi. Tamil Nadu has always been a competitive Ranji side, and this was an important fixture for Delhi.
Virat Kohli scored 139 runs, displaying his ability to play long innings in pressure situations. His innings helped Delhi build a big total and took control of the match.
