
Virat Kohli looked in dominant form in the second match of the ODI series as he compiled a well fought half-century. His return to form was one of the few bright spots for India in this game, and fans on X were quick to shower praise on the former captain after his well-crafted 65 at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Kohli's knock came at a crucial stage after India lost Shubman Gill early, helping steady the innings alongside Rohit Sharma before England struck back multiple times.
Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan departed in quick succession. But the former India captain scored a composed 65, and his knock quickly became one of the biggest talking points on X, where fans praised his intent, temperament and ability to anchor the innings under pressure. Soon after he completed his half-century, "Virat Kohli" started trending on X. Several users hailed the veteran batter for silencing critics after a failure in the last game, with many calling it a timely reminder of why he continues to be one of India's most dependable ODI batters.
- 301 Innings. - 54 Hundreds. - 78 Fifties. KING KOHLI SHOW - 78th fifty for the main man, as always he is ruling 50 over format, he is just too special in this format, the GOAT. 🇮🇳🐐 pic.twitter.com/6YsPp8Lq3B
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 16, 2026
Most 50+ scores vs England: Virat Kohli - 33* Sachin Tendulkar - 32 The greatest ever to score in tough conditions🔥 pic.twitter.com/cn4JpkguRb
— 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭!𝟎𝐧_👑🚩 (@bholination) July 16, 2026
Kohli stands tall against England
Several supporters contrasted Kohli's innings with the struggles of the middle order, arguing that the former captain once again showed the importance of building an innings rather than playing overly aggressive cricket. Others praised his fitness, shot selection and ability to absorb pressure when the team needed stability. "King is back," read one post, while another fan wrote that Kohli looked "vintage" and was batting with the same composure that made him one of the greatest players in the format.
POETRY THROUGH THE COVERS. 🤌 No one paints the off side quite like King Kohli 😍 Watch #ENGvIND 2nd ODI, LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels.#SonySportsNetwork #MamlaPersonalHai #ExtraaaInnings pic.twitter.com/JNIW8SuXCl
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) July 16, 2026
FIFTY BY THE KING. 🐐 - A run a ball half century by Virat Kohli. He’s looking in a great touch. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Qaw3WRLxxn
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) July 16, 2026
India collapsed after the fall of Kohli as they lost three more wickets cheaply with Sundar, Axar and Dube getting dismissed. India are in all sorts of trouble and despite Shreyas Iyer staying at the crease they do not have many wickets left. Virat Kohli looked in sublime touch and he will be very disappointed to miss out.



