India's Virat Kohli achieved his 50th century in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) on Wednesday, taking 106 balls during the ongoing 2023 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup semi-final clash against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The 35-year-old surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's record, becoming the highest century-maker in the history of ODI cricket. Interestingly, Kohli accomplished this milestone in the presence of Tendulkar, who was seated in the stands at his home ground.
On his way to the century, the former Indian captain also eclipsed Tendulkar’s record for the most runs scored in a single edition of the World Cup. Kohli surpassed Tendulkar’s 673 runs, which were achieved at the 2003 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Pakistan cricket fraternity congratulated Kohli for this achievement and rated him the greatest batter.
Remember, it was Virat Kohli's third century of this World Cup, He exhibited determined running between wickets on a humid day.
Kohli departed after scoring 117 runs in 113 balls in the 44th over, contributing significantly as India surpassed 300.
Members of the support staff and his teammates stood up and applauded Virat Kohli, shaking his hands in recognition of what could be considered a defining innings. The Wankhede Stadium stood united in applause for this remarkable achievement.
Kohli's knock and scintillating century by Shreyas Iyer propelled India to an imposing 397 for four against New Zealand in the first semifinal.
Rohit Sharma's (47 off 29 balls) brilliant start to the innings, tons by Kohli (117 off 113) and Iyer (105 off 70), and a fluent 65-ball 79 by Shubman Gill, who retired hurt due to cramps, powered India after the skipper won a good toss.
Rohit, as is his wont, went after the bowling straightaway, and almost killed the contest in the first hour of play at the Wankhede Stadium, his dazzling array of stokes leaving the Kiwis bruised and battered.
- Virat Kohli