Kohli hits year's third double ton as India dash England hopes

MUMBAI - Virat Kohli Sunday smashed his third double century of the year to leave India firmly in control on the fourth day of the fourth Test against England with a score of 579-7 at lunch.

The talismanic captain started the fourth day on 147 and reached his double ton near the end of the morning session as India raced to a 179-run first innings lead.
Kohli was unbeaten on 212 at the break, marking his third double-century of 2016 in what has been a sensational and record-breaking year for the 28-year-old Indian skipper.

The star batsman put on a massive 215-run partnership with Jayant Yadav as England failed to take any wickets during the morning's play, leaving the tourists with a mountain to climb.

England, who scored 400 in their first innings, must win to keep the series alive going into the fifth Test in Chennai, a feat that now looks next to impossible.

Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to the adoring Wankhede Stadium crowd as he brought up his double ton with a single off his 302nd ball of the match.

The right-hander has been the standout batsman of the year, scoring a double century against the West Indies in July before repeating the feat against New Zealand in October.

Jayant Yadav started the day on 30 and quickly brought up his half century before finishing the session 92 not out as he neared his first ever Test century.-APP