Virat Kohli has achieved 85 international centuries, a historic accomplishment. The significant question now isn’t about his greatness. It is straightforward yet challenging
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Does Kohli still have enough ODI matches remaining to reach 100 centuries?
How Many ODI Matches Are Actually Left?
Before the 2027 ODI World Cup, India is scheduled to play:
- 27 confirmed bilateral ODI matches
- Asia Cup 2027 (ODI format): 5–6 matches
- ODI World Cup 2027: approximately 10–11 matches if India plays well
This presents two distinct scenarios:
Without major tournaments: only 27 ODIs. With Asia Cup + World Cup: around 43 ODIs
For a batsman aiming for 15 centuries, this variation is crucial.
Kohli at 35 vs Kohli Now
In his prime, Kohli was relentless. His ODI centuries came frequently, averaging one every 6 matches.
Why Major Tournaments Hold Greater Significance Than Bilaterals
Bilateral ODIs can be unpredictable:
- Short series
- One poor innings can be costly
- Rest periods, squad rotations, experiments
Tournaments are where Kohli excels:
- Consistent role in each match
- Time to develop rhythm
- Favorable pitches
- Pressure that enhances focus
Historically, Kohli’s most significant late-career centuries have occurred in ICC events, rather than isolated series.
Can He Achieve 100 Centuries?
A realistic estimation is:
- Bilateral ODIs: 4–6 centuries
- Asia Cup 2027: 1–2 centuries
- ODI World Cup 2027: 3–4 centuries
This totals 8–12 centuries, still below the 15 needed
The Final Reality
If Virat Kohli skips the ODI World Cup, reaching the 100-century milestone becomes nearly impossible.
If he competes in the Asia Cup and the 2027 World Cup, while challenging, it remains achievable.
Kohli will not pursue records on a match-to-match basis. Should the hundredth century happen, it will occur naturally.
It will unfold as Kohli has always delivered under lights, under pressure, with the world watching.
FAQs: Virat Kohli and the 100-Century Chase
How many centuries does Virat Kohli have now?
Virat Kohli has 85 international centuries across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
How many centuries does Kohli need to reach 100?
Kohli needs 15 more centuries to reach the 100-century mark.
How many ODI matches will India play before the 2027 World Cup?
India currently has 27 confirmed bilateral ODI matches scheduled before the 2027 World Cup.
How many ODI matches will India play in the Asia Cup 2027?
If India reaches the final, they are expected to play 5–6 ODIs in the Asia Cup 2027.
How many matches will India play in the 2027 ODI World Cup?
If India goes deep into the tournament, they will play 10–11 matches.
Can Kohli reach 100 centuries without playing the World Cup?
It would be very difficult, as bilateral ODIs alone may not provide enough matches.
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