Indian cricket maestro Virat Kohli has etched his name in the annals of cricket history, achieving his 50th ODI century during the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. The cricketing world was in awe as Kohli secured a monumental feat, standing alone at the pinnacle of this remarkable achievement.
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Kohli’s historic century played a pivotal role in leading the host nation to a commanding 70-run victory, with New Zealand bowled out for 327 in pursuit of India’s formidable total of 397.
The 35-year-old icon had been in pursuit of fellow Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, who had notched up 49 centuries in his illustrious 463-match ODI career. Kohli reached this milestone in his 291st ODI match, cementing his status as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the game.
While Kohli had approached the 50th century earlier in the tournament, his determination bore fruit in the semi-final. His innings of 117 off 113 balls not only secured the win but also propelled him to the top of the charts for the most runs in a World Cup tournament, surpassing Tendulkar’s previous record.
The momentous occasion was marked by humility, as Kohli dropped to his knees and seemingly paid homage to Tendulkar, who was present in the crowd. Expressing admiration for his batting hero, Kohli also shared a sweet moment with his wife Anushka Sharma, blowing kisses in celebration.
Commentators and cricketing legends worldwide hailed Kohli’s achievement. Harsha Bhogle noted, “Number 50 arrives for Virat Kohli, and he stands alone aloft on that summit,” emphasizing the significance of this remarkable milestone.
Tendulkar, gracious in acknowledging Kohli’s achievement, expressed joy that an Indian had broken his record, especially on such a grand stage as the World Cup semi-final. Other cricketing personalities, including Mohammad Hafeez and VVS Laxman, joined in congratulating Kohli on this historic feat.
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As India secures a spot in the World Cup final, Kohli’s century stands as a testament to his passion, skill, and unwavering commitment to making his team victorious. The cricketing world now eagerly awaits the outcome of the second semi-final between Australia and South Africa to determine India’s opponent in the 2023 World Cup Final.
Virat’s Fans Reaction Here!
🚨 Virat Kohli surpassed Sachin Tendulkar record of most hundreds in cricket history !#INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/qROgGv95Cw
— Arحum (@itsarhum) November 15, 2023
History! Virat Kohli scored his 50th ODI hundred. Greatest Of All Time #KingKohli. #viratkohli #TeamIndia | #CWC23 | #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/bJ16s4MbCT
— Realm Of Cricket (@RealmOfCricket) November 15, 2023
Virat Kohli bows down to Sachin Tendulkar after scoring 50th ODI hundred. #ViratKohli #SachinTendulkar pic.twitter.com/GYA8nmnp0N
— Mufa (@MufaKohlii) November 15, 2023
ANOTHER HISTORIC LANDMARK SURPASSED. REMARKABLE, PHENOMENAL, SENSATIONAL, THE LEGEND OF THE LEGENDS, THE GOAT VIRAT KING KOHLI 👑❤️🔥#INDvsNZ #ViratKohli𓃵 https://t.co/RmDw7wEzAW
— Akshar ✨ (@YaBoyAkshar) November 15, 2023
What an iconic moment for Virat Kohli, his fans & Indian cricket fraternity, truly sensational❤️
— FJ (@distantblips) November 15, 2023