‘God of cricket 2.0’ – Fans react as Virat Kohli hits 50th ODI Hundred, honors Sachin Tendulkar with a humble gesture after surpassing his record

Former India captain and the modern-day great Virat Kohli etched his name in cricketing history by smashing his 50th ODI century during the ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on November 15.

Finally, the moment came that cricket fans across the globe had been waiting for. Kohli, amidst the roars of the Wankhede crowd, became the first player in history to score 50 ODI centuries. In a symbolic twist of fate, he achieved this feat in front of his cricketing idol, Sachin Tendulkar, who stood in the stands applauding the remarkable milestone.

The jubilation reached its peak as Kohli, at the same venue where he carried Tendulkar on his shoulders after India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, bowed down to the maestro in a gesture of deep respect and gratitude. The Wankhede erupted in joy, echoing the sentiment of an entire nation that had witnessed Kohli’s journey from a promising youngster to one of the greatest run-scorers in the history of ODI cricket.

Watch the video here:

https://twitter.com/brainybeauty_/status/1724754377796403477

Brilliant batting performance by India

The day began with an electrifying opening partnership as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill set the stage ablaze, putting on 71 runs for the first wicket. Rohit’s aggressive knock, featuring four fours and as many sixes, set the perfect foundation before Tim Southee’s breakthrough for New Zealand.

Gill continued the momentum, crafting a stellar 79 off 65 balls. However, the joy was tinged with concern as he retired hurt in the 23rd over. In stepped Kohli, the veteran batter with an unparalleled cricketing legacy, and he didn’t disappoint.

Kohli found his rhythm, guiding the innings with finesse. He notched up his first-ever World Cup knockout century and went on to establish a formidable partnership with Shreyas Iyer. The duo’s collaboration crossed the 150-run mark, with Iyer contributing yet another crucial half-century to the innings. However, Kohli departed after scoring 117 runs including 9 fours and 2 sixes.

As the cricketing world celebrates this historic achievement, Kohli’s innings not only propelled India towards a massive total in the semi-final but also etched an unforgettable chapter in the annals of the sport. The torch of excellence passed from Tendulkar to Kohli at the Wankhede, a poignant moment that will be remembered for generations to come. At the time of writing, India are 354/2 in 47 overs.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/RYK_0K/status/1724756701797359830

https://twitter.com/Mohdyasir6911/status/1724756753957703899