Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has scored his 50th one-day international (ODI) hundred, breaking the record previously held by his idol and former teammate Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli achieved this milestone during the Cricket World Cup semi-final match against New Zealand, where India scored a massive total of 397/4.
Kohli reached his century with a two off fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, after facing 106 balls and hitting eight fours and a six. This remarkable achievement comes just weeks after Kohli equalled Tendulkar’s record of 49 ODI centuries during a match against South Africa.
Tendulkar, who had previously expressed his wish for Kohli to break his record, expressed his happiness on social media. He tweeted, “The first time I met you in the Indian dressing room, you were pranked by other teammates into touching my feet. I couldn’t stop laughing that day. But soon, you touched my heart with your passion and skill. I am so happy that that young boy has grown into a ‘Virat’ player.”
Tendulkar further added, “I couldn’t be happier that an Indian broke my record. And to do it on the biggest stage – in the World Cup Semi-final – and at my home ground is the icing on the cake.”
Kohli’s 50th ODI hundred came in his 279th innings, and he has also scored 71 fifties in addition to his centuries. However, his innings wasn’t without its challenges, as he was dropped on 107 before eventually getting out for 117 when he pulled a shot to deep square leg.
This achievement by Kohli has been widely celebrated, and fans and experts alike are praising his consistent performance and dedication to the game. With this record-breaking century, Kohli has solidified his position as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.
The Indian cricket team has been performing exceptionally well in the World Cup, and this victory against New Zealand puts them in a strong position for the finals. Kohli’s century has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in India’s dominant performance, and fans are eagerly awaiting the team’s next match.
