World Cup 2023, IND vs SA: Virat Kohli Hits 49th Century on 35th Birthday As India Post 326/5

Kolkata: In a crucial World Cup match against South Africa, India managed to post a competitive total of 326/5 in their allotted 50 overs. Celebrating his 35th birthday, star batter Virat Kohli played a significant role, scoring a century (101* off 121 balls) on a challenging pitch, thereby equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 centuries.

Late in the innings, Ravindra Jadeja’s blitzkrieg of 29* off 15 deliveries helped India bolster their score. Earlier, KL Rahul (8) and Shreyas Iyer (77) were dismissed in the 43rd and 37th over, respectively.

India’s innings began with Rohit Sharma adopting an aggressive approach, providing a flourishing start. However, South Africa managed to break the opening partnership, dismissing captain Rohit Sharma after his quickfire 40 off 24 balls, including two sixes and six boundaries. Pacer Kagiso Rabada took Rohit’s wicket with a remarkable catch by Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma.

Shubman Gill (23) departed shortly after, bowled by spinner Keshav Maharaj with a delivery that clipped the bails, initially leaving Gill in doubt. India reached 50 runs in just 4.3 overs during Rohit’s attacking innings.

India, who won the toss, chose to bat in the top-of-the-table clash against South Africa. The hosts remained unchanged, while South Africa made a change by bringing in spinner Tabraiz Shamsi in place of pacer Gerald Coetzee. India, being the only unbeaten team in the tournament, faced off against a formidable South African side.