Ind vs. Pak: KL Rahul becomes the 5th Indian batsman to score a century against Pakistan in Asia Cup!

KL Rahul performed brilliantly and repaid the faith reposed in him by the team management and selectors by scoring a brilliant century against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 Super Force match held in Colombo on Monday, 11 September. This was Rahul's sixth century. One Day International (ODI) century and his maiden century against Pakistan, a feat that thrilled the R Premadasa Stadium on the reserve day of this marquee competition.

Rahul, who returned to international cricket after a long injury layoff, made a powerful statement to mark the remarkable achievement. Showcasing his talent, he brought up his century in just 100 balls and set the stage for an exciting encounter.

Rahul etched his name in cricket history by becoming the fifth Indian batsman to score a century against Pakistan in the men's Asia Cup tournament. He joins legendary cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Shikhar Dhawan, and Rohit Sharma, cementing his position as a force to be reckoned with.

Following Rahul's remarkable record, Virat Kohli also joined the party and demonstrated his mastery by scoring a century in just 84 balls. This spectacular feat marked Kohli's 47th ODI century, and he also holds the record of becoming the fastest to 13,000 ODI runs, breaking the long-standing record of the iconic Sachin Tendulkar.

Rahul remained unbeaten on 111, while Virat Kohli continued his excellent form with 122 not out, helping India post a strong total of 356 runs at the loss of just two wickets in the allotted 50 overs.

Rahul silenced his critics with an amazing display of aggression against Pakistan's strong bowling attack. Resuming his innings with a score of 14 on the reserve day, he and Virat Kohli made a partnership of over 200 for the third wicket. Despite the constant threat of rain looming as the match got delayed due to rain in Colombo, both batsmen maintained their composure under pressure, accelerating their scoring.

Rahul's innings was no less than class, as he faced both Pakistan's fast bowlers and spinners with equal gusto and turned the tables on Babar Azam. His half-century was completed in just 60 balls and even after reaching this milestone, he showed his talent. Rahul displayed his skills against Pakistan's spinners. Additionally, he demonstrated his improved fitness with exceptional running between the wickets, underscoring his commitment to excellence upon his return from injury.

As Rahul took the responsibility of pacing the innings while Kohli played a supporting role, the duo combined to take India to a strong total.

Rahul grabbed the opportunity with both hands, confirming his readiness to contribute significantly to India's upcoming World Cup campaign later this year. His extraordinary century against Pakistan will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in his career, cementing his place as a vital asset for the Indian cricket team.