On this day in 2023, Indian cricket fans were treated to a historic display of batting brilliance as two of the country’s premier batters, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, achieved rare feats in the Indian Premier League. Both players became the third and fourth cricketers respectively to score centuries in consecutive IPL innings, marking one of the most remarkable moments in the tournament’s storied history.
Virat Kohli, known for his relentless hunger for runs and unmatched consistency, was representing Royal Challengers Bangalore during the business end of the season. Having already struck a century in his previous game, Kohli walked out to bat with the weight of expectations. True to his character, he delivered another masterclass in controlled aggression and impeccable timing. Facing a quality bowling attack, Kohli showcased his trademark cover drives, quick running between the wickets, and an unwavering focus that has defined his career. He reached the three-figure mark with a calm flick into the leg side, prompting a roaring ovation from fans and his teammates. The back-to-back centuries added to Kohli’s already glowing IPL legacy and reminded the cricketing world of his enduring class.
Just hours later, in a different match, it was Shubman Gill who stole the spotlight. Representing Gujarat Titans, Gill had been in sublime form throughout the season. Known for his elegant strokeplay and calm demeanor, the young opener had struck a century in the previous game as well. Against a strong bowling lineup, Gill played with a blend of grace and authority, finding gaps at will and timing the ball to perfection. His ability to pick up pace after getting set has become one of his most admired traits, and he did exactly that in this innings. As he brought up his second consecutive century with a lofted drive over long-off, it became clear that India had truly found a new batting powerhouse for the future.
What made the day even more special was the rarity of such a feat in IPL’s 15-year history. Before Kohli and Gill, only two players had ever scored centuries in consecutive IPL innings—Shikhar Dhawan in 2020 and Jos Buttler in 2022. For two Indian batters to achieve this milestone on the same day not only highlighted their personal brilliance but also underscored the growing dominance of Indian players in the league traditionally dominated by overseas power-hitters.
Both innings had significant implications for their teams. Kohli’s knock kept RCB’s playoff hopes alive, while Gill’s ton strengthened Gujarat Titans’ hold at the top of the table. Beyond the immediate impact, these performances added new chapters to their personal IPL journeys. For Kohli, it was about reaffirming his place as one of the league’s greatest ever. For Gill, it was about signaling the arrival of a new era—an heir apparent staking his claim with performances that mirrored the best.
May 21, 2023, will be remembered as a golden day in IPL history, when two generations of Indian cricket shone brightest. Kohli, the seasoned warrior, and Gill, the rising star, reminded fans why the IPL continues to be the heartbeat of cricket’s shortest format.
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