How Many Centuries Has Virat Kohli Scored in the IPL? A Look at His Incredible T20 Records: Virat Kohli is one of the most prolific and consistent players in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Over the years, he has redefined T20 batting with his technique, adaptability, and consistency, making him one of the most formidable players in the format. As one of the most celebrated cricketers of his generation, the question of how many centuries he has scored in the IPL has always intrigued fans and analysts alike. So, let’s take a closer look at Virat Kohli’s century count in the IPL and delve into some of his most memorable performances in the tournament.

How Many Centuries Has Virat Kohli Scored in the IPL? A Look at His Incredible T20 Records

How Many Centuries Has Virat Kohli Scored in the IPL?

As of 2024, Virat Kohli has scored 7 centuries in the IPL. This is the most by any player in the history of the league, underlining Kohli’s dominance in the T20 format. His first century came in the 2011 season, and since then, he has continued to make significant contributions with the bat, often leading the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their quest for IPL glory.

Virat Kohli’s First IPL Century – 2011

Kohli’s first IPL century came in 2011 when he played a scintillating knock of 102 runs off 55 balls against the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). This century helped him announce his arrival as one of the best T20 players in the world, showcasing his aggressive intent while also maintaining a high level of control. His performance was marked by clean hitting and impeccable timing, qualities that would become a hallmark of his T20 career.

The Memorable 2016 IPL Season – A Record-Breaking Year

Kohli’s performance in the 2016 IPL season remains one of the most extraordinary individual campaigns in the history of the tournament. During this season, he not only scored a staggering 4 centuries but also ended up with a record-breaking total of 973 runs in a single season, the highest ever in IPL history. His centuries came in different conditions and situations, showcasing his adaptability:

First Century in 2016: Kohli scored 100 runs off 63 balls against Gujarat Lions. This was a quintessential Kohli innings—calm, composed, and technically perfect, with precise stroke play all around the ground.
Second Century in 2016: In the very next game, Kohli smashed another 109* off 55 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders. His aggressive intent in this innings was on full display, with Kohli taking the attack to the bowlers from the word go.
Third Century in 2016: Kohli scored 108* off 58 balls against Rising Pune Supergiants. His consistency was extraordinary, and he kept delivering match-winning knocks for RCB in what was a record-breaking season.
Fourth Century in 2016: His fourth century that season came in a crucial match against Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), where he scored 122 runs off 63 balls, which was the highest individual score in IPL history at the time.

His performance in 2016 was a landmark in IPL history. Not only did he score 4 centuries, but he also became the first player to score over 900 runs in a single season.

Centuries After 2016 – A Shift in Roles

While Kohli’s century count may have slowed down after 2016, he has remained a critical player for RCB, contributing consistently as a top-order batsman. Though he hasn’t been able to score as many centuries in the following seasons, his consistency, ability to anchor the innings, and adaptability to the changing nature of T20 cricket have continued to make him a key player for his team.

Kohli’s last century came in 2019, when he scored a 100* off 58 balls against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. It was a classic Kohli knock, as he paced his innings beautifully, guiding RCB to a strong total.

Key Stats of Virat Kohli’s IPL Centuries

Total Centuries: 7
First Century: 2011 (102 runs vs Delhi Daredevils)
Most Centuries in One Season: 4 centuries (2016)
Highest Score in IPL: 122 runs (2016 vs Kings XI Punjab)
Career Runs: Over 6500 IPL runs (as of 2024), with an average of around 38 and a strike rate of around 130.

Virat Kohli’s Impact on IPL and T20 Cricket

Kohli’s journey in the IPL has not only been about centuries but also about setting new benchmarks for consistency and adaptability in T20 cricket. He is one of the very few players to have crossed the 6000-run mark in the IPL, and his impact on RCB’s success has been immense.

Captaincy: Kohli led the Royal Challengers Bangalore for several years, although the team has not yet managed to win an IPL title during his tenure. Nevertheless, his leadership and consistent performances helped elevate the franchise to new heights.
Consistency: While he has not scored as many centuries in recent years, Kohli is known for his ability to play long innings, adapt to various situations, and maintain an impressive average in the IPL. His approach to the game, focusing on both timing and placement rather than just brute force, has made him a role model for budding T20 cricketers.

What Makes Virat Kohli’s IPL Centuries Special?

Adaptability: Kohli’s ability to adapt his game to different formats, conditions, and match situations is a key reason for his sustained success. His centuries are often a result of patience, smart stroke play, and the ability to rotate strike efficiently.
Consistency: Unlike many other aggressive batsmen in T20 cricket, Kohli has consistently played innings that are built around partnerships and good decision-making. He has the ability to anchor the innings or accelerate when required, making him a versatile player for any T20 side.
Mental Toughness: Kohli’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations, whether it’s chasing a big target or setting one, is another reason his centuries have had such a significant impact. He’s delivered in crucial moments, often rescuing RCB from difficult positions.

Virat Kohli’s tally of 7 centuries in the IPL is a testament to his skill, temperament, and dominance in the T20 format. His four centuries in the 2016 IPL season remain one of the most remarkable individual achievements in the history of the tournament, but his consistent run-scoring ability over the years has made him one of the most valuable players in IPL history. Kohli’s approach to T20 cricket—built on precision, consistency, and a hunger for improvement—has set him apart as one of the greatest T20 players of all time. While his centuries are fewer in recent seasons, his influence on the IPL and his impact on the game are undeniable.

Also Read: Most Runs in Powerplay in IPL History