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‘Virat aaj satako ka samrat’ – Fans go berserk as Virat Kohli notches up 49th ODI hundred vs South Africa in 2023 ODI World Cup

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Virat Kohli

Standing tall on a tough pitch in front of over 50000 spectators, birthday boy Virat Kohli gave the biggest gift any fan could ask for. On his 35th birthday, the backbone of Indian cricket scored a sensational century to give his team a competitive total against South Africa. ‘King Kohli’ shattered several records by notching up his 49th ODI century and second of the 2023 ODI World Cup on Sunday.

Kohli made history by becoming the eighth player to score an ODI century on his birthday with a single off Kagiso Rabada in the third ball of the 49th over. Sachin Tendulkar (134 vs Aus Sharjah 1998) and Vinod Kambli (100* vs Eng Jaipur 1993) are the two Indian players who have achieved this feat in the past. It was Kohli’s fifth ODI century against South Africa – joint-most by a player against the Proteas alongside Tendulkar and David Warner.

Kohli is now tied with legendary batter Tendulkar for the most centuries in ODIs. The 35-year-old brought up his 49th ODI ton, making the overall century tally to 79. The right-hander now has the second most 50+ plus scores in the 50-over format. Tendulkar – 145 (452 innings) Kohli – 119* (278 innings). Additionally, with over 1500 runs, Kohli became the 3rd highest run-getter in World Cup history.

The 34-year-old also became the second Indian to complete 6000 runs in India in ODIs. Kohli is now the first Indian batter to complete 500 runs in the ongoing World Cup. With 543 runs at an average of 108.60, the No. 3 batter is currently second in the leading run-scorers list. He has hit two hundreds and four half-centries from eight innings so far in this tournament.

Talking about the match, opting to bat first at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Team India got off to a flying start. Rohit (40 off 24) and Gill (23 off 24) departed after giving a brisk start and the baton was handed over to Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. The duo steadied the ship by adding over 100 runs for the third wicket. Iyer was dismissed after a brilliant half-century (77 off 87 balls). KL Rahul failed to shine, but Suryakumar Yadav played an impactful knock before getting out on 22 off 14.

Here’s how fans reacted to Virat Kohli’s sensational hundred vs South Africa: 

https://twitter.com/saqibkhan_10/status/1721139583469953168

https://twitter.com/PKMKB_93K/status/1721139394445558172

 

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Virat Kohli’s Selection for England Tour

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Virat Kohli's selection for England tour sparks debate. Selectors face tough choices as fans await a balanced decision.

Virat Kohli’s selection for the England tour has become a hot topic in Indian cricket. The star batter, known for his unmatched legacy, now faces questions about his form and consistency. Selectors must make a tough call before finalizing the squad.

Kohli remains determined to represent India and has ruled out retirement. Despite this, his recent performances in crucial matches have left much to be desired. Many experts believe the England tour will demand players in peak form, making the decision regarding Kohli’s inclusion more complicated.

The selectors’ challenge lies in balancing experience with performance. Kohli’s presence provides leadership and confidence to the younger players. However, the team also needs reliable contributions from all members, especially in challenging overseas conditions like England.

Transition words make discussions about Kohli’s selection even more nuanced. His iconic performances in the past earned him the tag of a match-winner, yet cricket is a game of the present. Younger players vying for opportunities might bring the energy and hunger required in such critical tours.

Fans and cricket experts remain divided. Some urge the selectors to back Kohli, believing he can regain his form. Others feel it’s time for India to focus on the next generation of cricketers. Regardless, the decision will significantly impact India’s preparation for the England series and beyond.

Virat Kohli’s selection remains central to Indian cricket discussions, as the world watches how selectors balance sentiment and strategy.

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BGT

Australia Reclaims Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Ends India’s WTC Final Hopes

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Australia defeated India 3-1 to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years, ending India’s WTC final hopes.

Australia wins BGT! Australia defeated India in the fourth Test at Sydney, winning the series 3-1 and reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade. The victory also ended India’s hopes of reaching the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

India entered the match under immense pressure, needing a win to keep their WTC final hopes alive. However, Australia’s disciplined bowling and steady batting dashed India’s aspirations.

After choosing to bat first, Australia posted a challenging total of 394, with contributions from Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. India struggled to counter Australia’s bowling attack, collapsing for 198 in their first innings. Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins led Australia’s bowling effort with sharp spells.

With a 196-run lead, Australia opted to bat again and declared at 201/6. Steve Smith’s half-century provided a solid foundation. Chasing 398, India faltered again, bowling for 215 on the fourth day. Despite Rishabh Pant’s counterattacking fifty, the hosts failed to build partnerships.

Nathan Lyon emerged as the star performer, finishing with match figures 10/78. His exceptional spin bowling proved too much for India’s batters to handle. Australia’s dominance throughout the series highlighted their all-around superiority.

This series win marks a significant achievement for Australia, reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a ten-year wait. It also secured their spot in the WTC final, setting up a potential clash with South Africa or Sri Lanka. Australia wins BGT!

India’s campaign revealed several weaknesses, particularly in their middle-order batting and bowling consistency. Questions about team selection and strategy also surfaced, with calls for introspection ahead of future tours.

The result concludes a hard-fought series, where Australia showcased resilience and strategic brilliance. While India will reflect on their missed opportunities, Australia celebrates a long-awaited triumph.

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Rohit Sharma Silences Retirement Rumors Amid Criticism, Receives Support from Farhan Akhtar

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Rohit Sharma

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has addressed the rising speculation about his retirement, silencing the rumors with a firm statement. The talk gained momentum after Rohit voluntarily sat out the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. His decision came amid a lean phase, as his form drew criticism from fans and analysts alike. Across five innings in the series, Rohit managed just 31 runs, averaging a mere 6.20.

Farhan Akhtar Extends Support

Amidst the backlash, actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar stepped forward to defend Rohit’s contributions to Indian cricket. In a heartfelt post, Farhan lauded Rohit’s selflessness and leadership qualities.

“This guy has done so much for Indian cricket and captained the team incredibly well over the years. Yes, every cricketer faces lean phases, even the greatest. But here’s a captain putting his team’s chances ahead of his own glory, and instead of applause, he’s being torn down,” Farhan wrote.

He concluded by calling Rohit a superstar and commended his strength, saying, “You put the team before yourself, and only the strongest of heart can do that.”

Rohit Sharma Responds to Retirement Speculations

During the lunch break on Day 2, Rohit clarified his stance in an interview with Star Sports.

“I wasn’t dropped or opted out. I stepped aside voluntarily. We need in-form players for such a crucial game. It’s simple—out-of-form players can’t carry the team right now,” he explained.

When asked about his future, Rohit ended with humor, saying, “I’m not going anywhere.”

His decision highlights his commitment to the team, showcasing why he remains a respected leader despite challenges.

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