Upon winning the toss, India unleashed their batting prowess at Wankhede on Wednesday, swiftly reaching 84/1 by the end of the initial powerplay, thanks to a spectacular display by Rohit Sharma.
However, the spotlight shifted to Virat Kohli thereafter, entering the game with a dismal track record in previous World Cup knockout matches, having never managed a boundary in three semi-finals. Despite a shaky start, the consistent and in-form talisman found his stride.
Kohli reached his half-century off 59 balls and surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most runs by a batsman in a single World Cup edition when he reached 80, tallying 673 runs. However, this was just a glimpse of what was to come.
Battling through cramps, the 35-year-old accelerated and achieved his 50th ODI century in the 42nd over with a quick two off Lockie Ferguson, surpassing Sachin’s long-standing record of 49 centuries. As chants of ‘Kohli Kohli’ echoed through the stadium, the batter raised his arm triumphantly while sprinting past the crease, then dropped to his knees to savor the historic moment.
Amidst thunderous applause, Sachin Tendulkar, present at the game with football legend David Beckham, rose in acknowledgment of the achievement, a gesture not lost on the centurion.
omg they are so cuteđź’• pic.twitter.com/bVq5MYF1pB
— •i• (@pachtaogaybro) November 15, 2023
Kohli, after removing his gloves and helmet, lifted both arms overhead, bowed multiple times while facing the Master Blaster, paying homage to the cricket legend. He then acknowledged the roaring crowd, igniting a celebratory frenzy on Twitter in honor of the Indian batter’s incredible milestone.