Kohli ton gives India pole position
Skipper’s 103 and 113run thirdwicket stand with Pujara leaves hosts chasing record 521 runs for victory
overs to deny any chance for the England bowlers in overcast conditions. It also ensured more wear and tear on the pitch if offspinner R Ashwin’s services were needed. The spinner though had a groin niggle on Sunday.
KOHLI’S CLASS
Much like his century partnership with Ajinkya Rahane in the first innings that put India on top, Kohli raised 113 runs with Pujara, who hit his 18th Test halfcentury. It was a vital knock for the India No 3.
Pujara, frustrated by not getting a big score in South Africa or in first-class matches for Yorkshire earlier in the summer, underlined the value of his patient approach in seaming conditions. He was lucky on 40 when Jos Buttler at second slip (he took up the keeping gloves after Bairstow’s injury) dropped an edge off Anderson low to his left.
Pujara completed his 18th Test half-century before lunch, and was looking to play more positively when extra bounce from Ben Stokes took the shoulder of his bat and was caught at first slip.
Kohli’s priority was consolidation though he played a patent cover drive off Stuart Broad and hit a stunning drive off Anderson through midwicket. The 36-yearold swing bowler though was furious after the let-off by Jennings which extended his wait to dismiss Kohli this series.
Kohli steered Chris Woakes to third man for four to get to his century, blowing a kiss to wife Anushka Sharma in the stands, and acknowledging a standing ovation from the fans.
Woakes trapped him soon after with a review proving unsuccessful.
Hardik Pandya hit a run-a-ball 52 not out before India declared.