I honestly never thought I will play 100 Test matches: Virat Kohli

Indian batting star Virat Kohli is on the brink of a
career milestone as he is set to play the 100th Test match of his career. Made
his debut in 2011 against West Indies, Kohli will play the match as a
top-order batter. He relinquished captaincy in January after the South Africa
series.

Also Read: Virat Kohli’s 100th Test match: 5 Test records held by Kohli

On the eve of his 100th Test match, an elated Kohli
said he is grateful to his family and childhood coach for this big moment and
proud of this milestone.

“I honestly never thought that I will play 100 Test
matches. It’s been a long journey. Played a lot of cricket over the course of
these 100 Test matches, a lot of international cricket, so I am grateful that I
have been able to make it to 100. God’s been kind. I have really worked hard on
my fitness. And it’s a big moment for me and my family, for my coach, who is
also very happy and proud of this Test match as long as I am concerned. So yeah
it is a very, very special moment.” Kohli said on a video produced by BCCI.

Kohli will play the 100th Test match of his career at
the PCA Stadium in Mohali against Sri Lanka, starting March 4. And the BCCI
allowed fans to attend the match, confirmed the board secretary Jay Shah confirmed.

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“The first Test between India and Sri Lanka to be
played at the Punjab Cricket Stadium in Mohali will not be held behind closed
doors. The decision to allow spectators into the ground is one taken by the
State Cricketing Associations and in the present circumstances, is based on
various factors. I have spoken with the PCA office bearers and they have
confirmed that cricket fans will be able to witness the historic moment of
Virat Kohli playing his 100th Test match,” Jay Shah said in a statement on
Tuesday.

“I am really looking forward to Virat Kohli’s
100th Test and wish our champion cricketer the very best. This is an occasion
for our fans to savour. May he continue to represent the country in many more
matches to come,” Shah added.

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The second Test of the series will be played at the M
Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from March 12 where 50 per cent of crowds are
being allowed.