Virat Kohli’s Century Against Pakistan and the Story Behind His Locket Celebration
The Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan on February 23 was a matter of pride for the entire country. Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first but managed to score only 241 runs against India’s formidable bowling attack. India successfully chased the target, defeating Pakistan by six wickets.
In this crucial match held in Dubai, Virat Kohli scored a century, a moment that has since become the talk of the town.
Virat Kohli’s Spectacular Innings
Ahead of the match, there was much speculation about whether Virat Kohli would score a century in Dubai. As he approached his hundred, standing at 96 not out, Kohli hit a four to reach his century and secure India’s victory.
Cricket fans and netizens celebrated his achievement, hailing him as “King Kohli.” Kohli himself was overjoyed, having struck seven fours in his innings. As he celebrated his century, he raised his bat, removed his helmet, and took out a locket from his neck, kissing it multiple times—a gesture that has now become iconic.
Why Does Virat Kohli Kiss His Locket After a Century?
Virat Kohli shares a deep bond with his wife, Anushka Sharma, and has often credited her for his success in cricket. The locket he wears around his neck contains his wedding ring, and each time he scores a century or delivers an exceptional performance, he kisses it as a tribute to Anushka.
This heartfelt gesture was first seen a few years ago in another India-Pakistan match when Kohli scored a century and celebrated in the same way. It has since become a tradition that he continues to follow.
The Locket Tradition Began in 2018
The story behind Virat Kohli’s locket celebration dates back to 2018. During a match against South Africa, Kohli first took out the locket and kissed it after reaching a century. Later that year, in a Test match against England, he repeated the gesture upon scoring another century.
At the time, Kohli was going through a rough patch in his career, struggling with form and facing criticism from fans. Some netizens even unfairly blamed Anushka Sharma for his poor performances. In response, Kohli’s gesture of kissing the locket was seen as a way to silence the critics and show his gratitude towards Anushka.
Since then, this special celebration has remained an integral part of his cricketing journey. Whenever Virat Kohli scores a century or plays exceptionally well, he kisses the locket, keeping the tradition alive.
